Thai protestors turn heat on embattled premier

Tens of thousands of protesters are marching in Bangkok in the biggest challenge to Abhisit Vejjajiva’s four-month-old government, as the Thai prime minister called for calm amid fears of violence.

Protesters planned to march today to the home of King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s top adviser, Prem Tinsulanonda, whom they accuse of masterminding the coup that paved the way for Mr Abhisit’s rise to power.

They are demanding the resignation of Mr Abhisit and Mr Prem.

More than 4,000 police were deployed in the area, with the army on standby and authorities urging the general public to avoid the area.

Bangkok Police Chief Lieutenant General Worapong Chiewpreecha said police expect at least 80,000 people to gather.

Police did not have an early crowd count, saying only there were tens of thousands as the march started.