Protests against George Bush´s visit to Colombia were put down by riot police and army troops who came on to the streets to protect Bush and his image. The rally to protest his visit was declared ilegal by the government, however, initially the police allowed it to go ahead. At about 12 noon shortly after Bush's arrival at the presidential palace, the police attacked the the demonstrators. Troops deployed in contravention of Colombian law. Over 170 were arrested and there were numerous injuries. Many of the detainees were arrested far from the rioting.