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State of Emergency in Ecuador

Published:Friday | October 1, 2010 | 9:35 AM

A state of emergency has been declared in Ecuador after President Rafael Correa accused the opposition and security forces of a coup attempt.



Correa was hit by tear gas after a confrontation and taken to hospital, before violence flared amid reports he was trapped inside.



Gunfire broke out after dark as soldiers launched a reported rescue.



Unrest has been reported across Ecuador amid anger at a new law which cuts benefits for public servants.