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Demonstrators Clash in Jordan, Dozens Injured


A Salafi protester holds a sword during a demonstration for extremist Salafi Muslims in the town of Zarqa, east of Amman, Jordan, April 15, 2011
A Salafi protester holds a sword during a demonstration for extremist Salafi Muslims in the town of Zarqa, east of Amman, Jordan, April 15, 2011

A clash in Jordan between supporters of a strict form of Islam and loyalists to King Abdullah has injured dozens of people.

The incident took place Friday in the northern town of Zarqa. Witnesses say several hundred Salafi Muslims were protesting for government reforms when they were confronted by government supporters.

The French News Agency (AFP) says six police officers were stabbed and dozens injured after they moved in with tear gas to break up the clashes.

Protesters demanding political and economic reforms have been taking to the streets in Jordan for weeks, usually on Fridays.

Some demonstrators have called for the dissolution of parliament and the firing of Prime Minister Marouf al-Bakhit.

Some information for this report was provided by AP and AFP.

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