国际英语新闻：Thai army clash with "red-shirts", one protester shot dead

The state of emergency, which took effect immediately after it was announced, is imposed in a bid to ensure security for the general public.

CRES also announced ban on entrance to Petchaburi, Phayathai, Wireless, Rama IV, and Ratchaprarop area in central Bangkok.

These areas are located around the anti-government rally site Rathchaprasong Intersection in the center of capital Bangkok. Any violation will entail 2-year-jail term.

Also, cellphone signals around the Rathchaprasong area have been blocked until midnight.

Meanwhile, for safety the BTS skytrain has suspended its services for all stations, Thai News Agency reported.