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A caption in a story on the recent protests in Bangkok unjustly accused Thai security forces of "gunning down protesters" [May 31]. Thai authorities have exercised utmost restraint. The use of weapons was strictly for defensive purposes and for protection of public safety. Armed protesters inflicted the most harm, using assault weapons and grenade launchers against officers, demonstrators and innocent bystanders alike. The devastation they caused has been widely reported by the Thai and foreign media. We all regret the loss of life. But by blaming security forces for the deaths that occurred, TIME ignores the existence of gunmen among the protesters and perpetuates a biased account of the events--the facts regarding which will be established by an independent fact-finding commission that is being set up.

Vimon Kidchob, Director General, Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, BANGKOK

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