Thailand

Riot police in Thailand sought to disperse thousands of protesters, a day after the government officially banned demonstrations calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha.

Tens of thousands of demonstrators ignored the order. They are calling for the resignation of military-backed Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and curbs on the monarchy.

Last week, Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul took the stage at a rally to read a manifesto calling for reform of Thailand's politically powerful monarchy — a move that could land her in jail.

Sunday saw the largest anti-government demonstration in Bangkok since a military coup six years ago. Some demonstrators called for reform of the monarchy, the country's most revered institution.

Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya, the grandson of the energy drink's creator, allegedly killed a Thai policeman while drunk driving in Bangkok, dragging the officer for more than 300 feet.

Thailand's lockdown has kept the number of cases low. But the economic toll has led to a mental health crisis.

Thailand has nearly 3,800 domesticated elephants, most kept in camps. There are fears that many will suffer during what is expected to be a time of prolonged severe economic hardship.

Authorities in Thailand's capital are prohibiting alcohol sales for 11 days in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19 during the Thai New Year. Instead, it caused long lines at liquor outlets.

Online sexual abuse is rising as countries close schools and impose various shutdown measures to contain the new coronavirus pandemic, children's rights advocates in Southeast Asia warn.

The court said the party's leader violated election law because he gave the new party about $6 million – far more than Thai law allows for political donations. He insists the money was a loan.