(18 February – latest update at 16.45) The number of fatalities in the a gunbattle between the police and anti-government militants at Ratchadamnoen Avenue has been revised down to 3.
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Erawan Rescue Centre identified the dead as Mr. Supot Boonroong, 52, who was shot in his head, and Pol.Sgt. Pianchai Pharawat, 45, who was shot in his chest.
The two individuals reportedly died at Bangkok General Hospital.
Later, Erawan Centre named Mr. Thanusak Thanakoch, 29 as the third fatality. Mr. Thanusak was shot in his chest and pronounced dead at Vachira Hospital, the statement said.
Another policeman, Pol.L.C. Pongsakorn Saengklom, was reported as another fatality after he had been shot in the head near Phanfa Bridge by an unidentified assailant. However, our correspondent reported that the policeman is still alive under intensive care at a hospital, although his condition is described as "critical".
It should be noted that the official number of casualties could change in coming hours.
More than 50 people have also been injured in the clashes, which flared up earlier today when riot police attempted to retake parts of Ratchadamnoen Road from anti-government protesters.
Armed militants, who were apparently allied to anti-government protesters, later opened fire, prompting the police to respond with live ammunition.
The clashes later subsided when the police retreated from Ratchadamnoen Avenue.
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