On 25 November 2013, anti-government protesters led by Suthep caused the closure of several government offices without police intervention, due to government fears that this could result in a repeat 2006 military coup.[21][22] The protests had been of a peaceful nature before short violent clashes between anti and pro-government groups on 30 November and 1 December 2013 that resulted in 4 deaths and 57 injuries,[23] prompting pro-government protesters to cancel all demonstrations within Bangkok.[24] An escalation of protests on 1 December saw security forces attempting to block protesters for the first time and two days of clashes occurred between anti-government protesters and the police, who used tear gas and water cannons to halt the protesters as they attempted to force their way into Government House.[25] On 3 December 2013, the police removed their barricades and allowed protesters to enter the site, reducing tensions in order to allow both sides to celebrate the King of Thailand's birthday.