DHAKA: Nearly 15,000 police and soldiers will be deployed in the Thai capital next week for the planned ‘shutdown’ of Bangkok by demonstrators trying to overthrow the government.

Thailand officials said on Wednesday, reports The Straits Times.

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has called February elections following weeks of opposition street protests.

But the demonstrators have vowed to block the vote, which they fear will only prolong the political dominance of her billionaire family.

The protesters say they will occupy the capital from Jan 13 until they win their battle to topple the government.

They plan to set up stages around the city, preventing officials from going to work and cutting off power and water to state buildings.

BDST: 1521 HRS, JAN 08, 2014
Edited by Robab Rosan, Current Affairs Editor