Thailand declares state of emergency for protests

BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand's government has declared a state of emergency in Bangkok and surrounding areas to cope with protests that have stirred up violent attacks.

Labor Minister Chalerm Yubumrung announced that the measure will take effect Wednesday.

The emergency decree greatly expands the power of security forces to issue orders and search, arrest and detain people, with limited judicial and parliamentary oversight. The protesters have been demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra.