Tongan youths attack PM office

Source: CCTV.com | 11-17-2006 09:35

Youths infuriated by a lack of political reforms have attacked the prime minister's offices and other government buildings in the South Pacific state of Tonga, setting at least a dozen fires.

Groups of youths roamed the streets, overturning cars, smashing windows and setting fires in the capital Nuku'alofa, while police stood by watching the violence. After the unprecedented riots and arson, some semblance of control began returning to the city center as police started moving people out of the business area. Meanwhile, New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said his country would offer assistance, adding that he hoped those responsible would be punished.

Editor:Sun Luying