BANGKOK (AP) -- The Thai army has declared an end to the operation against anti-government protesters and says that troops are now in control.
Despite the army claim, violence continued as Red Shirt protesters set fires in several parts of downtown Bangkok.
Army spokesman Col. Sansern Kawekamnerd told a Wednesday news conference that soldiers have entered the Rajprasong shopping district that protesters had occupied since mid-April. He said police and soldiers had completed their operations.
Seven leaders of the Red Shirt protest movement surrendered to authorities Wednesday afternoon after the army stormed their barricaded encampment, killing two protesters and an Italian photographer.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.
BANGKOK (AP) - Seven leaders of Thailand's Red Shirt protesters have surrendered to authorities after a deadly army assault on their fortified encampment.
They have been led away by police in central Bangkok. Army spokesman Col. Sansern Kaewkamnerd described them as "terrorist leaders" and said the "overall situation is under control now."
However, grenades exploded nearby as the Red Shirts announced their decision. Two soldiers and a journalist were wounded. Angry protesters also tried to set fire to a high-end shopping mall, and black smoke billowed over Bangkok's skyline.
The Red Shirt leaders said they are ending their sit-in to prevent more deaths. The army assault on their protest encampment killed two protesters and an Italian photographer.
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