The World - News from July 13, 1987

Police blocked access to the residence of the Vatican envoy in Panama, where four university students opposed to the military-backed government chained themselves to a flagpole Saturday and said they were beginning a hunger strike. They are demonstrating against military strongman Gen. Manuel A. Noriega and demanding the release of protesters detained in street skirmishes Friday. About 300 people were detained and at least 50 were hurt Friday when troops fired birdshot and tear gas to scatter hundreds of people gathering to rally against Noriega. Many of those detained have been released, officials said.