Meanwhile, security forces in Kabul fired automatic rifles into the air for a second day yesterday to contain hundreds of stone-throwing university students angered over the alleged desecration of the Koran by US troops during an operation two weeks ago in Wardak Province. Firetrucks were also brought in to push back protesters with water cannons. Police said several officers were injured in the mayhem.
US and Afghan authorities have denied any such desecration and insist that the Taliban are spreading the rumor to stir up public anger. The rumor sparked similar protests in Wardak and Khost provinces.
On Sunday, the students in the capital burned Obama in effigy and chanted slogans such as “down with Americans, down with Israel” as they marched from Kabul University to the parliament building, where riot police turned them back.
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