Thais flock to palace after king’s death

Tens of thousands of Thai mourners thronged Saturday to the palace complex where King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s body is being kept, as the government said a regent would be the caretaker of the monarchy until the crown prince takes over following his father’s death.

Dressed in somber black and white, people from all over the country converged at the complex in Bangkok’s historic center. Bhumibol died Thursday after prolonged illnesses that had incapacitated many of his organs. He was 88.

But confusion reigned outside the complex as police announced that it was closed for seven days. A while later, the complex gates were opened for people to visit one of the halls. The king’s body, which is being kept in another building, will not be revealed to the public for another 15 days, authorities said.

The crowds lining outside since dawn were subdued and orderly despite the swelling numbers. People shared food and handed each other water.