Anti-coup protesters seek help from UN

They asked UN's chief Ban Ki Moon to forward their petition to the UNHCR as they rallied in front of the UN buildings in Bangkok.

In the petition, they asked UNHCR to bring freedom back to Thailand and sought freedom of the protest leaders now being detained for questioning in relating to the clash in front of Privy Councillor chairman Prem Tinsulanonda.

The clash left about some 100 injured, mostly police and security officials.

The protesters carried banners and chanted slogans urging Thais to vote against a new constitution that goes to a referendum on August 19.

"We would like you to aid their release and to do something to expedite the process of the police's investigation too, to make sure our people are treated fairly," the petition said.

"We are pleading for your help. Please take a proactive stance towards Thailand's growing political situation and see to the restoration of our human rights," it said.