In Kyrgyztan, at least 17 people have been killed and 180 others injured in clash between police and opposition protesters in the capital city of Bishkek. Police said opposition supporters, who were demanding the resignation of President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, clashed with riot police outside the presidential office today. The police officer, Toktaim Umetalieva, said police opened fire and shot dead some 10 people while trying to disperse thousands of protesters rallying outside the presidential office. Witnesses said police were seen firing warning shots into the sky and the crowd and explosions could be heard. Many protesters fought back by hurtling bottles and stones at riot police holding shields. The protesters are angry at rising energy prices and accuse President Bakiyev of failing to tackle corruption.Meanwhile, the country's chief spokesman said Interior Minister Moldomussa Kongantiyev is still alive, denying earlier reports that he was killed in the riots. Reports said, Kyrgyz First Vice Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov was also taken hostage by protesters today at a square in Talas. According to the latest development, the country's national TV channels has stopped operation after protesters reportedly stormed into the national TV and radio building and took it over.