Thai intelligence service uncovers plot against prime minister

Thaksin, who has been at the center of a months-long political crisis, said the head of the National Intelligence Agency had shown him a copy of the report about the plot. He did not give any details.

Photo: Thai intelligence service uncovers plot against prime minister

Thaksin normally has 12 bodyguards, but the National Security Center recently provided him 30 more security agents, an army general who works closely with the NSC told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

Thaksin also hired an additional 10 guards to protect his family, the army general said on condition of anonymity because he is not authorized to speak to the media.

Reporters, who previously had unfettered access to the premier as he entered and left buildings, are no longer allowed to get close to him.

Thaksin's political troubles started with massive street demonstrations earlier this year, with protesters demanding he step down. Critics accuse Thaksin of widespread corruption and abuse of power.