56 suspects arrested for Myanmar's riots

Myanmar authorities have arrested 56 suspects for their involvement in a sectarian riot in Mandalay, police officials said Sunday.

Action is being taken against them on charges of murder, arson and illegal possession of weapons, Xinhua reported.

The police forces are investigating 36 other suspects.

The police have already punished 1,400 people who allegedly broke the curfew order.

In the riot that broke out in Mandalay July 1 over a rape case, two people were killed and 17 injured.

Following the riot, all seven townships in Mandalay have been placed under a dusk-to-dawn curfew since July 3.

As security situation in the areas has improved, the authorities have gradually reduced the curfew hours and as of July 28, the curfew was cut to be only effective from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.