Its plotters aimed to overthrow the government of Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram and to restore his main civilian rival, Pridi Banomyong, to political relevance.

Although in the People's Republic of China, he still maintained contacts with his supporters in Thailand and, with their help, he laid plans for a countercoup.

The group at the radio station announced on the air the formation of a new government headed by Pridi's friend, Direk Jayanama.

Major-General Sarit Thanarat then moved troops in and easily managed to oust Pridi from the palace grounds.

The rebels managed to escape in naval vessels across the Chao Phraya River, and navy units engaged the army in fierce street fighting.