Date:27/04/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/04/27/stories/2008042756271500.htm

International

Protests mark torch relay in Nagano

Nagano (Japan): The eggs and tomatoes flew, the Chinese and Tibetan flags waved and a determined police force got the embattled Olympic torch through the Japanese city of Nagano on its way to Beijing.

The torch was greeted on Saturday by a sea of Chinese well-wishers and pro-Tibet protesters as it passed through Nagano.

At least three protesters rushed the torchbearers during the relay, and four persons were injured. Five men were arrested.

More than 100 riot police personnel were mobilised to ensure that relay would not be affected. — AP