Army declares martial law in Thailand

Thailand's army has declared martial law across the country to restore order following months of anti-government protests that have left 28 people dead and hundreds wounded.

An announcement on military-run television said martial law had been invoked "to restore peace and order for people from all sides", stressing that the move "is not a coup".

"The public do not need to panic but can still live their lives as normal," it added.

The move, which gives the military control of nationwide security rather than the police, risks angering supporters of the government if it is seen as tantamount to a coup. 

The military insisted that its assumption of responsibility for national security was not a coup.

Martial law comes amid a long-running political crisis, and months of escalating tensions between the government and the opposition.

Correspondents say the move could enrage supporters of the government, especially if it is seen as amounting to a coup. The army has staged at least 11 coups since the end of the absolute monarchy in 1932.

Roads in the capital, Bangkok, have been blocked off by tanks.

The military has taken over TV and radio stations, and ordered media censorship in the interests of "national security".

Soldiers have also moved into the main government building, which has been unoccupied following months of violent demonstrations by opponents who want to be rid of an administration they say is corrupt.

Both pro and anti-government protesters have been told not to march anywhere in order to prevent clashes.

Chaikasem Nitisiri, the justice minister, told the Associated Press news agency the army had not consulted the cabinet.

He played down the move, saying the caretaker government was still running the country but that the army was now in charge of security.

"Security matters will be handled solely by the military, and whether the situation intensifies or is resolved is up to them," he said.

"There is no cause to panic. Personally, I welcome the move."