Thailand's government lifted a state of emergency in six provinces on Thursday but said the special security law would remain in place in 10 others, including Bangkok where massive anti-government protest has been for long staged.

"It will take effect today in six provinces," Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said after a meeting with the National Security Council.

The state of emergency, imposed since April to deal with anti-government protests, bans political gatherings of more than five people and gives the government powers to impose a curfew and censor media. It also gives broad powers to security forces, including the right to detain suspects without charge for 30 days.
 

Reuters