On 21 September 2017, the Supreme Court ruled that 13 leaders of People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD), also known as the yellowshirts, must pay 522 million baht for leading crowds to occupy two Bangkok airports in 2008, reported Khaosod English.
Upholding the decision of the lower court, the court added 7.5 percent annual interest to what the 13 owe Airports of Thailand since Dec. 3, 2008, when the the People’s Alliance for Democracy, or PAD, lifted its blockade of Bangkok’s two international airports.
The 13 leaders include Sondhi Limthongkul, who is currently serving a 20-year jail term for fraud. The rest were Maj. Gen. Chamlong Srimuang, Pipob Thongchai, Suriyasai Katasila, Somsak Kosaisuuk, Chaiwat Sinsuwong, Somkiat Pongpaiboon, Amorn Amornrattananon, Sarunyoo Wongkrachang, Samran Rodpetch, Sirichai Mai-ngam, Maleerat Kaewka and Therdphum Jaidee.
In 2008, the PAD seized Don Muang and Suvarnabhumi airport in a protest against People's Power government. It was seen as key to bringing down the government of Somchai Wongsawat, a proxy for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
On 28 August, the Supreme Court also levied two years jail term against 6 PAD leaders for occupying the Government House for nearly four months during a protest in 2008.
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