Urumqi bans unlicensed gatherings

2009-09-04 18:56 BJT

Special Report: 7.5 Xinjiang Urumqi Riots |

Watch Video

Play Video

New protests against a wave of hypodermic needle stabbings broke out in Urumqi, capital of China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Local Authorities are now banning unlicensed marches, demonstrations and mass protests in the city.

More than 1,000 people confronted armed police in downtown Urumqi today. Reports say security forces used tear gas to disperse the crowd.

Protests started Thursday morning, as thousands took to the streets to voice their anger against recent syringe attacks. Regional officials and public representatives told crowds to stay calm and show restraint.

According to police, needle attacks against innocent people begin August 17th. The regional health department says more than 470 people needed treatment for the attacks. No symptoms of infectious diseases or toxic chemicals have been found.

Local police have detained 21 suspects. Among them, six have been formally charged and four are awaiting criminal prosecution.