Bolivia in US extradition request

Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada fled to the US after the riots

Bolivia has officially requested the extradition from the US of its former president, Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada, over dozens of deaths.

The formal request accuses Mr Sanchez de Lozada of ordering a military crackdown on a riot in 2003.

Lawyers for Mr Lozada say the actions taken by the government were constitutional, lawful and appropriate.

They say the extradition request amounts to political harassment by Bolivian President Evo Morales.

At least 60 people died when troops opened fire on protesters angry at free market policies, including plans to export natural gas.

Mr Sanchez de Lozada fled to the US after the protests brought down his government in October 2003.