Protesters clash with police in Madrid

18/08/11 07:34 CET

world news

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As night on fell on Wednesday in Madrid, tension rose between the thousands of protesters who had been marching against the Pope’s visit, and the police.

Despite being initially peaceful, clashes broke out when officers tried to clear Puerto de Sol square.

Then fights among those for and against the Pope’s visit began.

What had been a well organised march with around 4,000 people taking part deteriorated into running battles with police using baton charges to control the crowds.

Missiles were thrown during skirmishes although the majority of protesters tried to get out of the way. In the end several people were arrested and at least a dozen demonstrators were injured along with three policemen.

More about: Benedict XVI, Clashes and riots, Madrid, Protest, Spain

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