Normality returning to Salvador

The violence has rocked Salvador's tourist centre

About one-third of the police force in Brazil's north-eastern city of Salvador has returned to work, following talks to end an 11-day strike which has plunged the city into chaos.

The return to duty of 30% of the police force was the first part of a deal reached with the authorities in exchange for the release of the two leaders of the police rebellion.

The police are demanding better pay

The BBC's correspondent in Sao Paulo says that the city is returning to normal more slowly than expected. Negotiations over police pay have not yet begun.

There are continuing reports of sporadic looting in outer suburbs and troops from other regions of Brazil continue to be flown in to Salvador, a popular tourist resort on the Atlantic coast.

Armed attacks

In the past two days at least 60 shops have been looted, according to a local trade association. Witnesses say the attackers have been well organised and armed.

But a meeting that ended early on Saturday brought the first breakthrough in the deadlock between the authorities and police negotiators.

In exchange for the release of the two main strike leaders and a promise to review the punishment of another 68, the police agreed that 30% of the force would return to duty.

Another meeting will be held to discuss the pay demands and try to end the strike altogether.

Domino effect

"We understand that we need to put police back on the streets, not for the governor, but for the people of Bahia," said Isidoro de Santana, one of the police officers who was released.

Some Brazilian offficials are now concerned that the strike could have a domino effect.

In the capital, Brasilia, police spokesmen say they will also go on strike if their pay demands are not met soon.

In Sao Paulo, police have begun a campaign for higher pay, although at the moment it is peaceful.

Police wages are traditionally very low in Brazil and this is seen by many as one of the main causes of widespread police corruption and brutality.