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Go Asia Pacific Breaking News Asia - Taiwan condemns violent anti-Chen protests

[This is the print version of story http://www.abc.net.au/asiapacific/news/GoAsiaPacificBNA_1085358.htm]

Taiwan condemns violent anti-Chen protests

Taiwan's government has condemned protesters who tried to storm President Chen Shui-bian's office after dozens were injured and 13 arrested in the worst clashes with riot police since his re-election.

Violence erupted near the presidential office late Saturday, police tried to drive back the crowds using water cannons.

Premier Yu Shyi-kun severely denounced the violence and demanded the responsible government agencies crack down on the attackers.

Taipei Mayor Ma Ying-jeou said, he had to order riot police to disperse the crowds to maintain order.

Around 1,000 riot police were called in to tackle protestors calling for a referendum on an independent probe into Chen's election-eve shooting, which they say swung him votes.

11/04/2004 23:41:23 | ABC Radio Australia News



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