On 20 March 2021, police officers deployed tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannons to disperse anti-government demonstrators in the capital Bangkok. Clashes began after demonstrators tore down part of a wall of shipping containers that authorities had set up to block demonstrators from reaching the Grand Palace in the city center. Approximately 1,000 demonstrators had gathered in the Royal Field area, located close to the Grand Palace, to demand the release of protest leaders authorities arrested for their involvement in previous protests to demand reforms to the monarchy. At least 20 civilians and 13 police officers were injured in the violence. Authorities arrested 20 individuals for violating the coronavirus-related ban on public gatherings and for insulting the monarchy.