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Lockdown in Mongolian capital after unrest

02/07/2008

Troops and security forces have taken control of the streets of the Mongolian capital and imposed a strict curfew following anti-government protests.

Thousands of people protested in Ulan Bator yesterday after claims the ruling party had fixed recent parliamentary elections.

The Mongolian People's Revolutionary party (MPRP), which had its headquarters attacked yesterday, was awarded a win in the poll amid accusations the opposition Democrats were denied their rightful share of the vote.

President Nambaryn Enkhbayar has already declared a four-day state of emergency, with state television claiming five people had been killed and more than 300 others injured in the unrest, which continued overnight.

Justice minister Tsend Munkhorgil said police had been using gas, rubber bullets and water cannons to deter protestors.

But local hospital sources said at least two people had died from gunshot wounds.

In a televised statement Mr Munkhorgil said: "Police will use necessary force to crack down on criminals who are looting private and government property."