Thailand’s army declared martial law early Tuesday, claiming that it was doing so to help "preserve law and order" after six months of sometimes violent political unrest

Thailand's army declared martial law early Tuesday, claiming that it was doing so to help "preserve law and order" after six months of sometimes violent political unrest.

But the military, which has been granted wide-ranging powers, insists that a coup d'etat is not underway.

The move effectively places the army in charge of public security nationwide. It comes one day after the Southeast Asian country's caretaker prime minister refused to step down and follows six months of anti-government demonstrations that have failed to oust the government.

The army said in a statement it had taken the action to "keep peace and order." But the chief security adviser to the interim prime minister said the government had not been consulted about the army's decision, the BBC reports.

Armed troops entered multiple private television stations in Bangkok to broadcast their message nationwide. Although troops were deployed at some intersections, the vast metropolis of 10 million people appeared calm and commuters could be seen driving and walking to work as usual.

An army official, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation, told The Associated Press "this is definitely not a coup. This is only to provide safety to the people and the people can still carry on their lives as normal."

Justice Minister Chaikasem Nitisiri told The Associated Press the army had not consulted the Cabinet. He played down the move, saying the caretaker government was still running the country but that the army was now in charge of security.

"Security matters will be handled solely by the military, and whether the situation intensifies or is resolved is up to them," he said. "There is no cause to panic. Personally, I welcome the move."