Demonstrators defied a Friday ban on public gatherings in Bangkok as they stood outside of the courthouse.

Some burned photographs of Thailand's king.

Others held placards that said Abolish 112 which refers to a Thai law prohibiting anyone from insulting or defaming the king.

Protester points on Peter Porn was among the crowd.

Okay, I'm here because I want to demand the release of my friends who were arrested for expressing their political ideas, which is a legitimate, basic human right.

A youth led protest movement began last year that called for reform to the powerful monarchy and for prime minister and former junta leader Prayuth Chan OCHA to step down.

Thai courts have denied recent requests to release some of those jailed on bail.

The royal palace has declined to directly comment on the protests.

Yeah, for the first time last Sunday, police used rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannon to disperse crowds.