BBC Monitoring

Islamists demanding the release of Red Mosque cleric Maulana Abdul Aziz have threatened Pakistani media over coverage of their protests at the mosque, according to Geo TV.

Geo TV has also received several phone calls warning the channel to refrain from reporting about the issue. Reporters were forced to leave the mosque earlier today when supporters of Aziz refused to accept the newly government appointed cleric to lead the Friday prayers.

Clashes between police and protesters continue in and around the mosque. A correspondent reported by phone that police are using tear gas to disperse the violent mob.

Source: GEO TV, Dubai, in Urdu 1100 gmt 27 Jul 07