Bangladesh police, prophet film protesters clash

DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) -- Officials and witnesses say scores of people have been injured in a clash in Bangladesh's capital between police and hundreds of Muslims who were protesting a film produced in the United States that denigrates the Prophet Muhammad.

Police say they fired tear gas and used batons on Saturday to disperse the stone-throwing protesters, who were from about a dozen Islamic groups. Witnesses say the protesters burned several vehicles. Dozens of protesters were arrested.

The clash erupted when police attempted to block the demonstration. All protests near the city's main Baitul Mokarram mosque have been banned since late Friday to avoid unrest.

The protesters announced a nationwide general strike on Sunday to protest the police action.

The film has sparked violent protests throughout the Muslim world that have killed dozens.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)