Possible Demonstrations in Chiang Mai on Sunday, November 29, 2009
This message alerts U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Chiang Mai that Prime Minister Abhisit is expected to visit the city on Sunday, November 29. Opposition protests by supporters of the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (aka UDD or "Red-Shirts") cannot be ruled out. Such protests could turn violent. Security authorities are taking steps to deal with the situation, which may include the precautionary deployment of troops and/or extra police.
We wish to remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. U.S. citizens are urged to avoid areas that may be targeted for demonstrations and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. U.S. citizens should monitor local media to keep updated with the latest information of any demonstrations and areas to avoid.
For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Alerts, Travel Warnings, and health-information resources can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada or, for callers in other areas by calling a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
U.S. citizens traveling or residing in Northern Thailand are encouraged to register with the Department of State or the U.S. Consulate Chiang Mai. The Consulate is located at 387 Wichayanond Road in Chiang Mai. The American Citizen Services Unit of the U.S. Consulate Chiang Mai can be reached by calling +66-(53)-10-7777 and by e-mail at ACSCHN@State.gov. The afterhours emergency telephone number is +66-(81)-881-1878.