ISTANBUL - Turkish authorities announced Wednesday that three more policemen were suspended as part of an investigation into a clampdown on a women's demonstration that was harshly criticised by the European Union.
The three officers were found to have used disproportionate force against demonstrators in the March 6 rally in Istanbul, the governor's office said in a statement carried by the Anatolia news agency.
The decision brings to six the number of policemen suspended for their heavy-handed intervention in the demonstration meant to mark International Women's Day.
They used truncheons and tear gas to disperse what was described as an unauthorized gathering; several officers were seen hitting and kicking women who had fallen to the ground.
The violent police response drew condemnation from the EU and raised doubts in Europe over Turkey's resolve to abide by the norms of the bloc it is seeking to join.
03/16/2005 16:32 GMT