Pakistani Police Battle Lawyers

Hundreds more arrested as cops storm courthouse rally protesting emergency rule

By Peter Fearon, Newser Staff

Posted Nov 5, 2007 5:12 AM CST

(Newser) – Baton-swinging Pakistani police clashed violently today with lawyers across the nation demonstrating against President Pervez Musharraf's declaration of emergency rule and suspension of civil rights. Hundreds were were arrested, joining 1,500 activists detained yesterday. In the largest confrontation security forces rushed 2,000 demonstrators outside the high court in Lahore.

Musharraf told foreign ambassadors today the "superior judiciary paralyzed various organs of the state and created impediments in the fight against terrorism." But international pressure against the move mounted. Condoleezza Rice urged Musharraf to sever his links with the military and reinstate civilian rule, and both the US and Britain said they were reviewing their aid to Pakistan in light of the crisis.

Pakistani police officers stand on alert at the main entrance gate of the city courts in Rawalpindi, Pakistan on Monday, Nov. 5, 2007. Legions of police firing tear gas and swinging batons clashed with... (Associated Press)

In this photo released by the Pakistan Press Information Department, Pakistan's military ruler President Gen. Pervez Musharraf addresses the nation in Islamabad, Pakistan on Saturday, Nov. 3, 2007. ... (Associated Press)

A Pakistan political activist looks outfrom a police van after he has been arrested in Pakistan. (Associated Press)

Police officers block Pakistani lawyers who are rallying against President Pervez Musharraf's declaration of a state of emergency. (Associated Press)

Police officers scuffle with lawyers protesting in Pakistan. (Associated Press)

Pakistani lawyers rally against President Gen. Pervez Musharraf's declaration of a state of emergency in Islamabad, Pakistan on Monday, Nov. 5, 2007. (AP Photo/B.K.Bangash) (Associated Press)

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Pakistani Police Battle Lawyers

Hundreds more arrested as cops storm courthouse rally protesting emergency rule

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