The nine-judge panel of the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Offices read the verdict on whether to seize $2.3 billion of ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra's frozen family assets, in Bangkok February 26, 2010. The twice-elected Thaksin, ousted in a 2006 coup and convicted in absentia of graft, is believed to be in Dubai and says he will fight any confiscation of the assets. (Reuters)

Policewomen attend a briefing at the Supreme court in Bangkok February 26, 2010. Security forces are braced for a big turnout and a possible violent response to a court verdict due on Friday on whether to seize $2.3 billion in assets belonging to the family of former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, whose popularity among the rural masses gave him an unprecedented two terms in office before his removal in a 2006 coup. (Reuters)

Police officers check the bags of photographers at the Supreme court in Bangkok February 26, 2010. (Reuters)