The World : Strike Violence in Ecuador

Protesters in Ecuador battled government loyalists and police in several cities during a 24-hour strike against austerity measures. At least 12 people were reported wounded by gunfire or gasoline bombs. President Leon Febres Cordero imposed the harsh economic regimen, including an 80% boost in gasoline prices, after earthquakes March 5-6 crippled the country’s oil industry. Officials said gunfire from a crowd of about 300 opponents of the walkout wounded four strikers in Quito. In Esmeralda, an oil-export center, officials said two policemen were wounded by gunfire. Three policemen in Guayaquil, Ecuador’s main port, and three soldiers in Quito were burned by gasoline bombs thrown by strikers, a government spokesman said.