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Tunisian embassy

January 12, 2011

Several firebombs have been thrown at the Tunisian Embassy in the Swiss capital Bern, although the fire failed to take hold. The attack comes as Tunisia is being hit by a wave of violent protests at home.

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The city of Bern
The arson attempt took place in the Swiss capital, BernImage: RIA Novosti

Swiss police have said several firebombs were thrown at the Tunisian Embassy in Bern early Wednesday.

The firebombs failed to ignite and caused only minimal damage. The attack took place shortly after midnight local time, and the unknown assailants managed to get away. Police said they are studying the motives for the attack and are seeking witnesses.

Tunisia has been rocked by a wave of violence in recent days that officials say has killed at least 23 civilians, the worst public unrest in the rule of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, who has been in power for more than two decades.

Protesters in Tunisia say they want jobs and better living conditions. The authorities say protests have been hijacked by a minority of violent extremists armed with petrol bombs and clubs.

Author: Joanna Impey (AFP, Reuters)
Editor: Martin Kuebler

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