More than 200 people have been arrested for looting in the Central African country of Gabon, after violence broke out in the capital, following a disputed presidential election result.
Thousands of angry protesters poured onto the streets of Libreville late Wednesday, accusing the Government of stealing the election after President Ali Bongo won a second term by a razor-thin margin over rival Jean Ping.
The results of the presidential election handed Mr Bongo a second term and extended his family's nearly five-decade-long rule.
Gunfire cracked across the city and plumes of smoke billowed from the torched parliament building as protesters clashed with heavily armed security forces.
The parliament building's facade was blackened by fire and its windows were smashed. Protesters had torn down its huge main gate and torched a sentry box at the entrance.
On the city's main artery, the Boulevard Triomphal — the location of numerous government institutions and foreign embassies — burnt-out buildings and cars could be seen, while makeshift barricades were still smouldering.
Scenes of pillaging were reported from outlying districts and telephone and internet communications were cut.
By mid-morning Thursday, security forces had sealed off the city centre which was calm and otherwise deserted, AFP journalists said.
"We have arrested more than 200 looters since last night," national police chief Jean-Thierry Oye Zue said.
"Six police officers have been injured," he said, adding that several civilians had also "most likely" been hurt, although he did not confirm if there had been any deaths.
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