Thailand restores order but ‘huge challenges’ remain

THAILAND’S premier said order has been restored after a deadly crackdown on anti-government protests triggered mayhem in the capital, but that the divided kingdom faces “huge challenges“.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva declared victory in a campaign to secure Bangkok, clamping down on militants in the Red Shirt movement who went on a rampage of arson and looting after their leaders surrendered on Wednesday.

“This is one of the worst episodes Thailand has ever faced,” Abhisit said in a televised address to the nation.