BANGKOK (AFP) - Thailand will deploy nearly 3,000 troops to reinforce security in Bangkok, a senior police official said on Saturday, with tensions rising as opposition protesters vow a final push in their bid to topple the government.

"From tonight there will be soldiers out to take care of security," national police spokesman Piya Utayo said in a televised address, adding that some 2,730 military personnel from the army, navy and airforce would take part.