Huge Thai security force deployment stifles coup protests

Thai police officers take position around the Victory Monument where anti-coup protesters have been gathering in Bangkok May 31, 2014. REUTERS/Athit Perawongmetha

BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand's military government sent thousands of troops and police into central Bangkok on Sunday, stifling any mass dissent against the army's coup on May 22 and limiting protesters to small gatherings held mostly around shopping malls.

The military toppled the remnants of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra's administration after months of protests forced ministries to close, hurt business confidence and caused the economy to shrink.