Demonstrations turn into riots in Latvia

Wednesday 14 January 2009 10:10 UTC

Anti-government demonstrations in the Latvian capital Riga turned into riots last night. Around 10,000 people took to the streets in protest against unemployment, tax increases and the poor economic situation. They demanded the resignation of the centre-right government.

It was the largest demonstration since the country became independent from Russia in 1991. Latvia became a member of the European Union five years ago and at the time was one of Europe's fastest growing economies. But the country is currently experiencing a recession.

The demonstration in Riga got out of hand when some demonstrators threw stones at riot police and tried to storm a number of official buildings including ones occupied by the EU and NATO. At least 30 people were injured in clashes with police, and around 125 demonstrators were arrested.

Original Article