Photo Essay: Scenes from Democracy Monument moments after the Coup

By Coconuts Bangkok

May 22, 2014 | 9:39pm Bangkok time

Thailand’s military declared a coup on Thursday, taking control of the government and suspending the constitution.

Coconuts Bangkok went out moments after the coup was announced to survey the scene near Democracy Monument.

Protestors who have been camped out for months had begun to pack up and leave after being ordered to by the police. Despite the tension in the air and gravity of the political situation, many Bangkokians could be seen taking a stroll around the monument – and even taking selfies with some of the soldiers and police officers who were standing guard.

This move occurred just days after the military imposed martial law, with the claim that it was not a coup. The head of the Thai army, General Prayuth Chan-ocha said that it was necessary for the military to seize power and enact political reforms to restore order in Thailand.

Along with the coup, a nationwide curfew has been imposed from 10 pm to 5 am. In addition, Thai TV stations are banned from broadcasting, the cabinet has been ordered to report to the military, and political gatherings are banned.