In pictures: Protests against Thailand coup

Thai soldiers walk through a market in central Bangkok - 23 May 2014Getty Images

Thailand is in the midst of a military coup after the army suspended the constitution following months of political unrest in the country.

A crowd gathers on a street in central Bangkok to protest the military coup in Thailand - 23 May 2014Getty Images

Crowds gathered to protest against the army's move and call for a return to democratic rule in central Bangkok on Friday.

Thai army chief General Prayuth Chan-ocha speaks at a news conference at the Bangkok Army Club - 20 May 2014Reuters

Thailand's army chief Gen Prayuth Chan-ocha said the coup was needed to "quickly bring the situation back to normal".

Anti-coup activists hold signs as they gather to protest against the actions of the Thai army in downtown Bangkok - 23 May 2014AFP

Although coups have occurred frequently in Thailand's history, protesters are worried that Gen Prayuth will not give up power this time.

A protester is dragged away by Thai army soldiers after taking part in an anti-coup rally in Bangkok - 23 May 2014Getty Images

So far the protests have been small-scale and relatively peaceful, although there were some scuffles and arrests on Friday.

A van believed to be carrying former Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra arrives at the Bangkok Army Club - 23 May 2014Reuters

Former PM Yingluck Shinawatra, pictured above in a van, and a number of family members and politicians have been detained.

A line of Thai soldiers march over a crossing on a street in central Bangkok - 23 May 2014Getty Images

Thai troops have been deployed at several key intersections in Bangkok to enforce a strict curfew in the capital.

A pro-government demonstrator embraces a Thai soldier on the outskirts of Bangkok - 23 May 2014AP

The coup has delighted anti-government protesters, who have been camped in the centre of Bangkok since November.

Supporters of the Thai army pose for a photograph in front of a group of soldiers in Bangkok - 23 May 2014Reuters

The army has been besieged by supporters asking to have their photograph taken with the troops in Bangkok.

A Thai soldier stands in front of a portrait of Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej as he patrols near government buildings in Bangkok - 23 May 2014Getty Images

Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej has reigned through numerous military coups but is yet to comment publicly on the current situation.

Backers of the Thai army hold placards to show their support outside the Bangkok Army Club - 23 May 2014AFP

One local official who met Gen Prayuth said: "There will be an election but it will take a while. The general didn't say when."

A bus passes Thai soldiers on patrol on a road near the Bangkok Army Club - 23 May 2014Reuters

The US led international criticism of the coup, saying there was "no justification" - but the military look set to remain in control for now.