Riots Spread in Equanter's Eastern Province: Army Called In

The security situation in Equanter's Eastern Province has worsened. Four local policemen were killed in an ambush and four more riots were reported across the Province.

Curfews have been imposed and access to the border with Malatia has been restricted.

The four local policemen that were killed in an ambush as they were responding to a report of gunmen sighted outside the village of Smallville. They were attacked by about 15 gunmen upon arrival at the scene. At the same time, riots were taking place in the village of Smallville and the provincial capital, Maname. More than 40 vehicles were set on fire and 25 shops damaged.

The Equanterian Royal Government has deployed troops to support the local police in enforcing security. 150 troops from the 3rd Queens Regiment have arrived in Smallville and began imposing curfew and search and destroy operations against gunmen.

Malatia has condemned the move and several hundred Malatian troops were seen moving towards the border checkpoint between Equanter and Malatia.  According to Malatian Defence Ministry's statement: " We have the right to invade and occupy the Eastern Province to protect ethnic Malatians".