Thailand's military rulers were firmly in charge Tuesday after royal endorsement, although they faced small protests that the security forces appeared to handle with restraint.
Coup leader Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha said Monday he had been formally endorsed by King Bhumibol Adulyadej as head of a military council in charge of the country. He warned he will use force if protests flare.
Prayuth seized power last week, saying the army has to restore order after nearly seven months of sometimes deadly demonstrations.