Violence hits Venezuela again

Parts of Venezuela – including the Caribbean holiday destination of Margarita island – have been hit by violent political protests. At least five protestors are reported to have been killed in the capital Caracas after members of the public clashed with security forces during five days of protests. The Times reports that in Caracas, buses were set alight and roadblocks were built by protestors, while there have also been violent clashes in the cities of Merida, Valencia, and on Margarita. The violence came after the president, Hugo Chavez, was accused of trying to prevent a referendum aimed at removing him from power. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office website, at www.fco.gov.uk/travel, states: “Such incidents are likely to continue in the coming months until the political situation becomes more stable. You should therefore avoid all demonstrations and any roadblocks.” Report by Tim Gillett, News From Abroad