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Dozens killed in violent demonstrations in Kyrgyzstan capital
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Tensions in Kyrgyzstan's capital, Bishkek, were running high on Wednesday. Dozens of people were killed and more than 400 were injured in violent clashes between anti-government protestors and police.
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Dozens of people were killed and more than 400 were injured in violent clashes between anti-government protestors and police in Kyrgyzstan. |
Clashes between police and thousands of opposition protesters in Kyrgyzstan continued Wednesday.
Protesters stormed parliament, took over the national TV and radio channels and set fire to government offices in the capital of Bishkek.
Two regional government buildings were overrun by protesters early Wednesday.
Earlier reports claimed the Interior Minister was killed in the riots after being taken hostage by opposition protesters.
The government denies that claim, saying he is alive.
A state of emergency has been ordered in Bishkek and three other cities.
Daniyar Usenov, Kyrgyz Prime Minister, said, "The situation in Talas yesterday was quite tense, especially in the evening. The building of the regional administration was attacked twice, then it was taken over and destroyed. Everything that could have been broken was, and then set on fire."
The unrest broke out after an opposition leader was arrested Tuesday. Dozens of police and civilians were missing or were injured in the violence.
The protesters were demanding negotiations with the President and the Prime Minister.
They threatened to occupy the presidential office if their demands were not met.
Opposition leaders are asking the government to step down.
The international community is urging authorities and protesters to calm down, and resolve their disputes through democratic means.
