Thai protesters seek reinforcements; army to send armored cars

Thousands of Thai anti-government protesters looked for reinforcements on Thursday after ignoring a midnight deadline to end two months of street rallies that have hardened political divisions and hurt the economy.

Leaders of the mostly rural and urban poor protesters urged supporters to join their barricaded encampment in Bangkok's commercial district after authorities abruptly postponed plans to cut power and water to the area following outcry from residents. Also Thursday, the Thai army said it will send armored vehicles to checkpoints around the protest encampment in central Bangkok, close major roads to the site, and urged businesses in the area to shut. (Reuters)