Riots break out over appointment of north Colombia local mayor

Residents of a north Colombian town rioted Friday over the appointment of a new mayor by the local government, leaving at least 10 people injured.

A disturbance broke out Friday morning in the town of Candelaria in the northern department of Atlantico, reports RCN Radio.

The confrontation between civilians and anti-riot police ESMAD reportedly resulted in 10 to 12 people being injured.

The rioting residents of Candelaria reject the inauguration of incoming Mayor Carlos Barrios, who was appointed by the local government after previous mayor Jose Fonseca resigned 45 days ago.

Residents are upset with the irregular process of selecting a new mayor and say that Barrios’ appointment is an extension of the former government.

Rioters burned the farm of former Mayor Fonseca and a group armed with machetes blocked off the main road that enters the town, report Radio Santa Fe.

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