Clashes in Venezuela over court decision

Police in Venezuela have clashed with protesting supporters of President Hugo Chavez, who were demanding punishment for the military officers allegedly involved in last April's short-lived coup attempt against him.

Police used tear gas and plastic bullets to disperse demonstrators in different parts of the capital, Caracas.

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court failed to back a move to try four high-ranking military officers for rebellion over their alleged participation in the attempt to overthrow Mr Chavez.

Opponents of the Venezuelan leader have accused his supporters of trying to intimidate the court, which is expected to make a final decision on the case by next week .

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service