International

Sudanese security forces have used live ammunition in a major operation to disperse protesters in central Khartoum, witnesses and Arab television stations have reported.

A medical association affiliated with protesters said at least nine people had been killed and dozens injured in the attack on a sit-in in the city. Other estimates put the death toll at 10.

The news of the crackdown sparked sporadic unrest around Khartoum. Thousands of protesters were reported to have blocked roads with stones and burning tyres in Omdurman, the twin city neighbouring the Sudanese capital.

Smoke was seen rising from several locations in Khartoum and at least one bridge across the Nile was reported to have been blocked by burning tyres.