Thousands protest at Argentina rescue plan

Riot police in Buenos Aires fired tear gas and rubber bullets at straggling protesters in the Plaza de Mayo after a demonstration against President Eduardo Duhalde's severe bank restrictions turned violent.

At least 16 people were injured and dozens arrested yesterday after more than 10,000 Argentines took to the streets. They banged pots and pans and jangled keys to show contempt for the policies of the Peronist who is scrambling to stave off economic collapse. Vandals heaved paving stones and molotov cocktails at motorcycle police outside the Casa Rosada, the presidential palace, and provoked a police backlash. Crowds also assembled in other Argentine cities – Mar del Plata, Cordoba, Mendoza, Rosario and Salta.

"Get out! Get out!" the throng in the capital chanted, venting their ire at the new caretaker government. Professionals stood with the newly unemployed poor to taunt corrupt politicians who have brought South America's second biggest economy to the brink of bankruptcy. "They're all thieves," some shouted. Others called for the Supreme Court judges to step down.

Since taking office, Mr Duhalde has devalued the peso by more than 30 per cent and has not kept promises to ease restrictions on bank withdrawals that have locked up savings. He said that "without blood or somersaults" the country must create "a productive Argentina", while warning against anarchy.