COCA LEAF FARMERS DETAINED AFTER CLASHES

Several people have been detained in Bolivia after clashes between the
police and coca leaf farmers . The farmers were protesting against the
expulsion from the country's congress of a prominent member of the lower
house the chamber of deputies, Evo Morales.

Mr Morales who represents Bolivia's coca leaf farmers, has been accused of
being involved in the killings of a policeman and army officer during
similar clashes last week.

The main road between Cochabamba and Santa Cruz in the centre of the
country remains blocked by the farmers.

The farmers are threatening to set up road blocks on Monday to coincide
with the start of an indefinite strike being organised by traders and
hauliers in the region.

Correspondents say public anger against the government is growing over its
policy of eradicating coca, without providing farmers with a sufficient
alternative to support themselves.