Algerian students defy regime protest ban

Hundreds of students have rallied in the Algerian capital as the wave of protest continues to sweep across the Arab world.

The protesters came together close to the Ministry of Higher Education and it follows recent strikes and demonstrations in defiance of a ban on public gatherings.

Security personnel were out in force in Algiers and a number of students claimed they were beaten by baton-wielding police.

The government has vowed to end its 19-year-long state of emergency, including the ban on public gatherings.

However, opposition groups plan to march again on Saturday to call for an end to the regime of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika.

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