Pro-government mob attacks offices of Sri Lanka lawyers

COLOMBO (AP) - A pro-government mob armed with clubs attacked lawyers' offices and bystanders near Sri Lanka's main court complex on Thursday after being stopped by police from confronting protesters demanding the government halt efforts to impeach the chief justice.

Lawyers, opposition politicians and activists began the protest hours before Parliament was to debate a report that found Chief Justice Shirani Bandaranayake guilty of possession of unexplained wealth and misuse of power. Ms Bandaranayake has denied the allegations.

An Associated Press photographer saw police stop the mob from approaching the protesters. It then attacked nearby offices and bystanders but there were no serious injuries.

The protesters shortened their rally and then dispersed.