Some 44 persons lost their lives during a series of clashes between troops and "red-shirt" protesters from May 14 to 19, acting government spokesman Panithan Wattanayakorn said on Thursday morning.

Also, at least 398 others were wounded, bringing the total casualties to 442, during the violent clashes in the past six days.

Addressing to the nation in a television program at about 11:00 a.m. local time, Panithan updated the overall situation, including the casualties.