More than 100 people injured as demonstrators clash in Jordan

Demonstrations turned violent in Amman, Jordan, Friday as government loyalists clashed with protesters who are pushing for reforms.

Dozens were injured as the two sides converged in a hail of rocks and swinging sticks, according to protest organizers and the government. The country's General Security Directorate said at least 62 citizens and 58 security force members, including two senior officers, were injured

One man died of a heart attack Friday, officials said. His cause of death is disputed by some protesters who claim he was beaten.

Government opponents and supporters chanted dueling slogans while police stood by, one organizer said. But officials say police tried to separate the two groups and were initially overwhelmed before they later regained control of the situation.

Several thousand protesters voiced their discontent with the government. The number included young people, writers, artists and communists as well as "normal and independent people," said Toleen Tauq, one of the demonstration organizers. She described several waves of stone-throwing incidents.

The state-run Petra news agency reported that several hundred young people demonstrated, carrying placards stating "The people want reform" and "We want to live in dignity and freedom." (read m0re)