Rio closes on gang's orders

Many shops and schools in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro have closed for the day, after receiving threats from drug-traffickers.

The closures were reportedly ordered in the early hours of Monday by the 'Comando Vermelho' gang.

Police say it's a show of power by the traffickers, aimed at causing panic ahead of Sunday's general elections.

They say the threats are a response to the authorities' decision to suspend visiting rights for two jailed leaders of the gang.

Crime and violence have been key issues throughout the election campaign.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service