Ecuadorean president leaves hospital — media

Violent clashes between police and military broke out near the hospital earlier in the day, which the radio said could be a part of operation to release the president. Protestors opened fire and used tear gas against servicemen, who arrived to the hospital on two trucks.

Journalists say about 20 special police officers wearing bullet-proof vests entered the building shortly before the clashes began.

No official information is available so far.

Police officers of the Latin American state took to the streets on Thursday a day after parliament passed a controversial bill to delay automatic promotions and to end bonuses and other benefits. At least one person was killed and dozens injured in the protests, including the foreign minister.

President Rafael Correa was taken to hospital after a tear gas attack and is unable to leave the building, which is surrounded by an angry crowd. He said the protests were a planned coup attempt. Kazinform cites RIA Novosti. See www.en.rian.ru for full version.