Syrian forces fire on pro-democracy protestors – reports

22/04/11 14:13 CET

world news

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Several thousands of people have reportedly taken to the streets across Syria in one of the biggest pro-democracy protests, dubbed “Great Friday.”

Witnesses say police have fired live rounds and tear-gas to disperse demonstrators calling for the overthrow of the regime in a number of cities, including Homs, Deraa and the capital, Damascus.

It comes a day after President Bashar al Assad formally ended five decades of emergency rule.

Earlier this week, Syrian authorities warned no further protests would be tolerated. More than 200 people are said to have been killed since pro-democracy protests erupted more than month ago.

More about: Bashar al-Assad, Clashes and riots, Police violence, Protest, Syria

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