Soldiers break up Burma protests

Burmese soldiers and police are baton- charging small groups of protesters who are trying to gather in Rangoon.

Security forces have sealed off five monasteries that were focal points of previous mass marches and are trying to prevent further protests.

Official media said nine people were killed on Thursday as troops fired tear gas and bullets to clear large crowds protesters off the streets of Rangoon.

But Australia's ambassador in Burma said the toll was probably higher.