Olympic protests turn violent in Vancouver

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 14 (UPI) -- Police in Vancouver, British Columbia, say more than 200 anti-Olympic protesters damaged businesses and vehicles in the western Canadian city.

Vancouver police said the masked protesters also threw objects at police officers during Saturday's Olympics Resistance Network protest, which resulted in seven people being arrested, the Canwest News Service reported.

The Olympics Resistance Network said in a release the protest was in opposition to capitalism and was intended to disrupt the start of the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver.

Police and protesters also clashed Friday following the official opening of the Games, prompting Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson and British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell to speak out against violence used in such demonstrations.

"I'm really disappointed there was violence and disrespect shown by protesters. I think all in Vancouver expect there will be peaceful protests and a few individuals crossed that line," Robertson said.

"Now is a time for celebration. Now is a time to try and lift Canada up," Campbell offered.

"And frankly, I think the protesters are self-centered and selfish and in many cases cowardly."