Vietnam convicts 20:

A Vietnam court convicted 20 people on Monday of joining nationwide protests last month against a draft economic law that sparked anger in the communist nation where demonstrations are banned.

The protests against a proposed bill to grant lengthy leases to foreign investors in special economic zones erupted in several cities across the country, including in some areas where police headquarters were stormed and officers attacked.

Scores were detained after the demonstrations, which were fuelled by anti-Chinese sentiment. They included an American citizen convicted of causing public disorder and deported earlier this month.

On Monday 20 people were found guilty on similar charges in southern province of Dong Nai and given sentences ranging from 18 months’ jail to a 12-month suspended sentence, according to the province’s official newspaper. (AFP)