Venezuela gov’t backers attack, injure opposition lawmakers

CARACAS: Venezuelan pro-government militants wielding clubs and pipes stormed into the opposition-held National Assembly Wednesday (Thursday in Manila), attacking lawmakers and leaving seven hurt including three with blood streaming from their heads.

The special Independence Day legislative session turned into a violent, nine-hour siege when supporters of leftist President Nicolas Maduro then blocked the building and prevented 350 lawmakers, staff and others from leaving.