Pakistani security forces told to break up rioters

Photo: Pakistani security forces told to break up rioters

Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf allowed violence to drive away rioters angered by Bhutto’s assassination, state news agency said.

Musharraf said that all those looting and plundering "must be dealt with firmly and all measures be taken to ensure (the) safety and security of the people," according to the AP report.

After Bhutto's death, supporters wept and broke the hospital's glass doors, threw stones at cars, and reportedly chanted "Dog, Musharraf, dog" outside the hospital, referring to President Musharraf. Others attacked police and burned election campaign posters and tires. Some opposition groups said that the assassination could lead to civil war, and other commentators said that the upcoming elections will likely be postponed.

Demonstrations were widespread in Pakistan with police using tear gas and batons to break up angry demonstrations in Peshawar . Some protesters torched the billboards of Musharraf, firing in the air and screaming. Protests in Multan also had protesters burning tires and blocking traffic. Similar scenes were witnessed in Karachi , Bhutto's hometown. Police in Sindh have been put on red alert.

Photo: AP