Hundreds of self-styled war veterans and supporters of the ruling Zanu-PF party went on the rampage in Zimbabwe's second largest city of Bulawayo on Wednesday evening.

Dozens of people, amongst them late night shoppers, were injured in a further escalation of political violence ahead of presidential elections next month.

Earlier this week, petrol bombs struck a printing press and a newspaper office in Bulawayo, following warnings from Zanu-PF supporters.

Trouble started when the mob left the ruling party's provincial headquarters in the south-western city and marched into the city centre beating up anyone they came across.

Taxis were stoned and drivers beaten up.

People fled in different directions.

Those who tried to seek protection from the riot police were chased away.

Police role

The riot police, according to eyewitnesses, said they were not there to protect MDC supporters.