Authorities deployed anti-riot police officers throughout Harare

Authorities deployed anti-riot police officers throughout Harare on 12 January 2009 as frustrations over the country's ongoing economic and health crises increase. Reports indicate that dozens of police officers in armored vans and armed with automatic rifles were stationed at Africa Unity Square, the city's central park, which is a common gathering ground for protests. Other officers patrolled the city on foot, armed with batons, shields and tear gas canisters. The deployment comes as Zimbabwe's doctors vowed to maintain their strike and continue protests until their demand for better salaries and working conditions is met. There were no immediate reports of arrest, but Harare's police force has routinely used force to put down opposition rallies and protests in the past