Appeal for Calm After Nepal Riots

September 1, 2004

Author: Staff Writer

Source: BBC News

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/3616712.stm

Nepal's prime minister has appealed for calm following violent protests in the capital against the killing of 12 Nepalese hostages in Iraq.

Sher Bahadur Deuba called for restraint in a nationwide address on state radio.

An indefinite curfew has been imposed in Kathmandu after angry mobs attacked a mosque and offices. Police say one protester has died in the violence.

Many in Nepal are blaming the government for not doing enough to secure the release of the hostages.

In his address, Mr Deuba said no community should be targeted over the killings of the Nepalis.

Opposition leaders have also appealed for calm, as has the king.