Soldiers patrol in San Rafael Las Flores, Guatemala, Thursday, May 2, 2013.
Guatemala's government declared a state of emergency, and banned public gatherings Thursday in four townships east of the capital - following several days of violent clashes between police and anti-mining protesters.
The government sent in 500 police officers and 2,000 soldiers, some in armored personnel vehicles. It said protesters were armed with guns and explosives. Clashes have involved police, mine security guards and local protesters.
