Myanmar democracy protest in neighbouring Thailand

Myanmar democracy protest in neighbouring Thailand

Protesters in Bangkok, Thailand, held a rally where they banged pots and pans to show support for the anti-military movement in neighbouring Myanmar.

Footage shows crowds gathered at the MBK shopping mall amid a strong police presence this afternoon (Feb 10).

Thailand's democracy movement has campaigned against the country's military rulers for two years.

They are now voicing concern for Myanmar, also known as Burma, after military chiefs seized power by toppling leader Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1.

Protests have erupted across Myanmar and continued for the fifth consecutive day following the strong-arm tactics from the army, lead by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

Supporters are calling for the release of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi and other politicians who were detained as army chiefs seized power.

In astonishing scenes at the weekend, large crowds wore red as they marched towards the City Hall near Sule Pagoda, which became the focal point where dozens of smaller marches all converged.

Army chiefs reacted to the mass protests by closing Internet and phone connections across the capital on Saturday (Feb 6) shortly after 11 am local time before it was restored on Sunday (Feb 7) at around 3 pm local time.

Burma was governed by Britain from 1824 to 1948, during which time it became the second-wealthiest country in Southeast Asia but following independence was ruled by the military until 2011 when democratic reforms began.