United Nations, Feb 24 (IANS): UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has called for an immediate end to escalating violence in Thailand, and urged authorities to bring those responsible to justice.

In a statement issued Sunday, Ban condemned the attacks last weekend against anti-government protestors, which killed at least two people.

"The Secretary General believes strongly that there should be no place for violence by any side in resolving political differences and disputes," said the statement, adding Ban would provide assistance in any possible way.

He has called on all sides to respect human rights and the rule of law, prevent any new attacks and "engage in meaningful dialogue" toward ending the crisis and advancing reform.

The Thai protestors are reportedly seeking to overthrow Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra's administration and implement anti-corruption reforms.

The government had imposed emergency security measures last month.