Thai protesters storm state offices

Samak said police would surround the seat of government - where most of the protesters who rallied throughout the day have camped out - and not let any supplies or people in until all the protesters had left.

“Police will take decisive action against the protesters ... government restraint is almost over,” he said, but added that force would not be used and the government’s approach would be “soft and gentle.”

“I ask all the protesters who have been blockading or occupying government offices that you still have a chance to withdraw and go back to your homes.”

The national police force had earlier said protesters had until 6:00pm (1100 GMT) to leave the grounds of Government House, but the deadline passed without any visible action by security forces.

Piphob Dhongchai, one of the protest leaders, vowed to stay at Government House overnight.

“We are not breaking any laws. We came in here and rallied peacefully. We will stay as long as we can,” he told cheering protesters.