Chile protests flare; president pledges social reforms

Protests flared in Chile's capital Santiago on Wednesday after days of protests, arson attacks and looting which has seen more than 6,000 people detained and at least 15 people killed. Thousands of Chileans defied a state of emergency and military curfews. Clashes erupted after largely peaceful marches were led by students and trade unionists against social inequality since Chilean President Pinera pledged social reforms to try to quell days of rioting. Pinera has said he hoped to turn the violent protests into an "opportunity" for Chile. Pinera's proposed reforms include a guaranteed minimum wage, a hike in the state pension and the stabilization of electricity costs.