In pictures: Solomon Islands riots

Rioting broke out in the Solomon Islands on Tuesday after the appointment of a new prime minister, Snyder Rini, accused of corruption by his opponents.

As many as 1,000 people rampaged through the streets of the capital, Honiara, leaving the city scarred.

Rioters laid waste to the Chinatown district, targeting shops and businesses. Mr Rini's opponents also claim he favours Chinese businessmen - a charges he denies.

The new Chinese-owned Pacific Casino Hotel in Honiara was among buildings set alight.

Vehicles were also torched in the mayhem, during which stones were thrown at police and several foreign peacekeepers were injured.

According to some estimates, 90% of Chinatown was destroyed. Australia and New Zealand sent in more troops to quell the disturbances.

Dozens of families in the small Chinese community were said to have left their homes for shelters.

Once the burning was over, local people ransacked destroyed shops, taking sacks of salt and other goods.

Snyder Rini, chosen to head a new government after this month's elections, was secretly sworn on Thursday amid fears this could spark more violence.

After two days of rioting, the atmosphere in Honiara was described as tense but quiet on Thursday, after security forces imposed an overnight curfew.

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