In pictures: Uruguay crisis

Mobs have looted shops in the Uruguayan capital, as the country is paralysed by a strike in protest at continuing economic turmoil.

Looters reportedly ransacked 16 supermarkets in Montevideo's suburbs

Supermarket employees took refuge next to police during the looting

Police said they would not tolerate any street violence - some 20 people were arrested (AP)

The government blamed the street violence on "organised groups who wish to destabilise society"

Earlier on Thursday, thousands of workers turned out for a peaceful four-hour protest in Montevideo (AP)

Banks remain closed and people have been waiting by cash machines, hoping to withdraw money (AP)