Prosecutors state in the indictment that on Nov 29, 2008, the 31 violated the emergency decree imposed by the People Power Party government of that time, headed by Somchai Wongsawat, and incited PAD protesters to occupy the two airports.
Their intention was to force the Somchai government to resign.
The airports seizure was called off on Dec 2, 2008, when the Constitution Court ordered the dissolution of the People Power, Chart Thai and Matchimathipatai parties. The dissolution order resulted in Mr Somchai losing the prime minister’s post.
The 31 are charged with terrorism, illegal assembly, violation of the emergency decree and a variety of other offences.
They include Maj-Gen Chamlong Srimuang, Sondhi Limthongkul, Pibhop Dhongchai, Somsak Kosaisuk, Suriyasai Katasila, Somkiat Pongpaiboon, Sirichai Mai-ngam, Samran Rodphet, Maleerat Kaewka, Sawit Kaewwan, Therdphum Jaidee, Pol Gen Pratin Santiprapop and Anchalee Paireerak.
Altogether 114 people will face charges over the incident which closed the airports and caused massive disruption to flights and inconvenience to business people, tourists and commuters.
The prosecutors will indict the other defendants later.
A yellow-shirted mob also occupied Phuket International Airport and Krabi Airport at the end of August 2008, causing both airports to close for a couple of days. Phuket PAD leaders later blamed these invasions on “third party infiltrators” bent on discrediting the PAD.
To read the original Bangkok Post story go here.