Zimbabwe police break up anti-government protest

Baton-carrying riot police used tear gas and water cannon to breakup an anti-government protest in Zimbabwe's capitalon Wednesday, dispersingdemonstrators who demanded that President Robert Mugabe step down.

People hurried for cover as police moved in on about 200activists marching to the country's reserve bank to protest a currency crisis.

Zimbabwe abandoned its currency in 2009 following hyperinflation, adopting a multi-currency system dominated by the United States dollar.

Dollar shortages have resulted in long lines at banks.

The government has responded to the shortagewith aplan to roll out in Octoberlocal banknotes, or "bond notes," which would beused alongside the U.S. dollar and theSouth African rand. Many fear that could trigger a return to hyperinflation and wipe out people's savings.

• Zimbabwe admits hyperinflation defeat, urges currency trade-in for U.S. dollar bills

Mugabe has responded to the recent protests by saying that people who are unhappy with living conditions can leave the country.

The 92-year-old has been in power since 1980.