25 vehicles damaged in arson, police fire in air

Bangalore, Jan 19 (UNI) Police fired four rounds in the air following arson by an angry mob, which while going to attend a public meeting to protest Saddam Hussein's hanging, pelted stones and damaged 25 vehicles including a police petrol jeep here today.

One police official was beaten up and more than 12 policemen were injured in stone pelting after the trouble broke out at Thimmaiah-Seppings road in the City.

Police said the incident occurred when a group of people proceeding towards Shivajinagar Stadium to attend the meeting burnt effigies of US President George Bush and but a flag which was put up nearby, caught fire.

Vandalism ensued and mob pelted stones, set afire several vehicles which including two wheelers, cars and autorickshaws.

Police first resorted to lathi charge and then lobbed several rounds of tear gas shells. However, when it proved futile, they fired in the air to disperse the mob.

UNI