Thailand coup: Singapore expresses 'grave concern', urges restraint

Thai soldiers advance on Red Shirt pro-government supporters rally site on the outskirts of Bangkok, Thailand on May 22, 2014. Singapore has expressed grave concern over the latest developments in Thailand and urged all parties involve
Thai soldiers advance on Red Shirt pro-government supporters rally site on the outskirts of Bangkok, Thailand on May 22, 2014. Singapore has expressed grave concern over the latest developments in Thailand and urged all parties involved to exercise restraint. -- PHOTO: EPA

Singapore has expressed grave concern over the latest developments in Thailand and urged all parties involved to exercise restraint.

"Singapore expresses grave concern over the latest developments in Thailand. We hope that all parties involved will exercise restraint and work towards a positive outcome, and avoid violence and bloodshed," Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement onThursday night.

"Thailand is an important regional country and a key member of Asean. Prolonged uncertainties will set back Thailand and the region as a whole,'' the ministry said.

"As a close friend of Thailand, we hope that the situation will return to normal as soon as possible," it added.

Earlier on Thursday, Thailand's army chief General Prayuth Chan-ocha announced that the military had taken over control of the country, after months of violent protests.

The military suspended the constitution and imposed a curfew from 10pm to 5am local time. All protesters were told to leave their rally sites and gatherings of more than five people were prohibited.

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