Thai police step up security in Bangkok

Security has been stepped up in Bangkok to prevent the protests spilling over into violence.

50-thousand soldiers, police and other security personnel have been deployed to sites of demonstrations. Police have been instructed to break up the rally if protesters block roads or intrude into government offices.

Thai Prime Minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva, called on protestors to keep calm during their demonstrations.

Abhisit Vejjajiva, Thai Prime Minister, said, "Recently, there has been a rumor circulating violence will occur. I hope people do not believe this false rumor."

Thai soldiers check anti-government demonstrators for weapons and other items at a checkpoint in Wang Noi, Thailand, Saturday, March 13, 2010. (AP Photo/David Longstreath)