The military has seized power in Thailand, with chiefs announcing the coup in a televised broadcast.

The military had assured the Thai public when they declared martial law, that they did not plan to seize power, but they say that they have now taken this step to maintain law and order after months of political chaos in the country.

They have suspended broadcasts on television and radio stations, with almost all news channels taken off air including the BBC and CNN. However, the internet still appears to be available.

A curfew has been imposed between 22:00 to 05:00, as well as a ban on political gatherings.

The leaders of various protest movements have reportedly detained by soldiers, and the army has said that it plans to break up the various protest camps around Bangkok.

This is the 12th such time the military has taken power since Thailand gained independence in 1932.