Chile clashes: violence breaks out during protest to mark coup anniversary
- 7 years ago
Violent clashes have broken out in Chile’s capital Santiago during a protest to mark the anniversary of country’s 1973 coup.
Police used water cannon and fired tear gas at demonstrators who responded by throwing rocks, bottles and other projectiles.
The anniversary marks the moment President Augusto Pinochet seized control of the South American nation, ushering in 17 years of military rule.
Earlier in the day, thousands marched on the capital’s General Cemetery to remember victims of the dictatorship.
According to official government figures, more than 3000 people died or disappeared while Pinochet was in power. Another 30,000 are estimated to have been tortured.
Police used water cannon and fired tear gas at demonstrators who responded by throwing rocks, bottles and other projectiles.
The anniversary marks the moment President Augusto Pinochet seized control of the South American nation, ushering in 17 years of military rule.
Earlier in the day, thousands marched on the capital’s General Cemetery to remember victims of the dictatorship.
According to official government figures, more than 3000 people died or disappeared while Pinochet was in power. Another 30,000 are estimated to have been tortured.