Thai protestors seize state TV

Efforts to oust Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra have escalated after protesters took control of state television headquarters in Bangkok. Protesters claim Shinawatra is controlled by her brother Thaksin, Thailand's exiled former leader. Thaksin was ousted in a military coup seven years ago.

Over the past days, demonstrators had managed to gain access and occupy parts of government ministries. Their control over state television now grants protestors total control over media broadcasts. Foreign observers commented this has moved the situation in Thailand dangerously closer to an attempted coup.

Riot police near Government House fired tear gas at a mass of demonstrators after street fighting repeatedly erupted between officers and protestors. Military back up was called in to support law enforcement officers in protecting the main government building. At least two people have died, and dozens were reported as being wounded in the clashes

Thai PM Yingluck invoked special security powers however had to hastily leave for an undisclosed location after protestors attempted to storm the police compound where she was.