In recent weeks near daily rallies have been held at universities and town halls across the country to denounce the military-aligned government of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha.
Human rights lawyer and activist Anon Numpa, 35, has been one of the most prominent at the creative protests that even included a Harry Potter-themed rally on Tuesday.
Yesterday police read out the charges before detaining Anon outside his home in Bangkok, a move captured on a video that quickly circulated online.
“Inciting unrest among the public...and creating chaos in the kingdom,” said one of the officers surrounding Anon.
Thai Lawyers for Human Rights confirmed the arrest of Anon and fellow activist Panupong Jadnok.
The group detailed eight charges in total brought against the pair for a rally held at Bangkok’s Democracy Monument on July 18, including sedition and taking part in a gathering that increased the risk of spreading infection.
Protesters have been voicing their rising discontent at Prayut, whose hold on power they regard as a legacy of a royalist junta regime.
No charges have so far been filed under the law against the protesters.
News of the arrests quickly spread on social media and dozens of supporters gathered yesterday evening outside Bang Khen police station, where Anon was being held.