US Embassy to close for anticipated demonstration

The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand has been informed by the Royal Thai Police that a demonstration involving several hundred people is planned on Wireless Road in front of the Embassy beginning between 1 PM and 2 PM on Tuesday, September 18.   Demonstrators will assemble at Lumpini Park and march to the Embassy. The large number of demonstrators is expected to disrupt traffic in the area. Consequently, the Embassy will be closing to the public at noon on September 18 and non-essential personnel will be released. Visa and citizen services appointments scheduled for the afternoon of September 18 are being cancelled and rescheduled for later dates.     The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok is not aware at this time of any specific threat to U.S. citizens in Thailand.  As a general precaution, the U.S. Embassy advises you to exercise caution and to be aware of your surroundings, particularly around large crowds or gatherings. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence with little or no warning.   You should avoid areas that may be targeted for demonstrations and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations or large gatherings. You should monitor local media to keep updated with the latest information about demonstrations and areas to avoid.  If you have any questions or concerns, please call the U.S. Embassy at (66-2) 205-4000 or visit the U.S. Citizens Service website at http://bangkok.usembassy.gov/.  We will post the most updated information on the website.