Bolivian police 'mutiny' in opposition to Evo Morales

Groups of officers in major cities join protests over disputed presidential election result

Police in at least three Bolivian cities have declared mutinies and joined anti-government protests - a possible indication that parts of the security forces may be withdrawing their backing for President Evo Morales after weeks of unrest over disputed election results.

Bolivia's defence minister, Javier Zavaleta, said on Friday that no military action would be taken against the police involved for now and the government would not mobilise troops as tens of thousands of Bolivians took to the streets in cities across the country.