News

Algerian police have broken up an anti-government demonstration by about 300 people in the centre of the capital, Algiers, calling for greater freedoms.

Several protesters were injured and a number are reported to have been arrested. Seven police officers were also hurt, according to state media.

The leader of the opposition Rally for Culture and Democracy (RCD) said those held included its parliamentary leader.

The protest followed rioting in several cities set off by rising food prices.

The government has noted the popular unrest in neighbouring Tunisia, which led to the ousting of President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali.

Protests in Algeria earlier this month left at least five people dead

There have also been a number of public suicide attempts, echoing the self-immolation of a man in Tunisia that triggered the protests there.