28 killed during anti-government protests in Syria

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DAMASCUS: The death toll from firing by Syrian security forces on anti-government demonstrators went up to at least 28.

Widespread demonstrations were staged in the capital Damascus, Banias, Darra, Homs and other cities, however security forces backed by tanks, mortar and helicopters opened indiscriminate fire on the demonstrators resulting in the death of at least 28 people, while several others were injured.

According to Arab TV, most of the casualties were reported from the outskirts of Damascus, the North Western province of Edlib and the coastal town of Lilzaquia.

Meanwhile in Washington, State Department spokesman Mark Toner told journalists that President Bashar al Assad had refused to undertake reforms and the US was mulling over how to mount pressure on him.