Niger frees 239 Muslims held over fashion show

NIAMEY, Niger (Reuters) -- Niger has freed 239 Muslims who were detained after violent protests against a fashion show branded by opponents as "satanic," judicial sources said on Friday.

They were arrested between November 8 and 10 during protests against the International Festival of African Fashion. The sources said around 30 people were still being held pending charges.

The November 10-13 show took place as planned on a river beach near the capital, Niamey, under heavy security. The event itself passed without incident.

Islamic protesters had taken to the streets in Niamey and a second city, Maradi, demanding the cancellation of the event, which they described as a "satanic show inciting people to debauchery."

Demonstrators also smashed up the homes of prostitutes, bars and betting booths.

Seven Islamic organizations were officially banned after the protests. Niger's population is 97 percent Muslim.

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