At least 13 people were killed and over 520 injured as the continuing opposition protests in Thailand turned violent, Kyodo news agency reported.
According to the agency, those killed in clashes include nine civilians, three soldiers and a Japanese national, who worked as a photographer for Reuters news agency.
Meanwhile, Associated Press reported citing data from the government's Erawan emergency center that 18 people were killed and over 650 injured.
Bangkok was hit by mass protests by the opposition demanding the resignation of Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, the dissolution of parliament and the holding of new elections.
A series of protests in Thailand started in March 2009 after the government offered 9 million low-paid Thai workers assistance worth $55 per head to stimulate the economy. Protestors called the aid "bribery," accused the Cabinet of coming to power illegally and demanded that Vejjajiva step down.
BANGKOK, April 11 (RIA Novosti)
