Pinochet divides Chile in death

The reaction of the Chilean people to the death of Augusto Pinochet on Sunday (December 10th), has displayed mixed emotions of both celebration and mourning.

General Pinochet ruled Chile by way of a military dictatorship from 1973 to 1990, during which more than 3,000 people were killed or "disappeared".

He died in a Santiago hospital after his condition worsened from an earlier heart attack on December 3rd.

As news of his passing spread, mourners gathered outside the hospital to pay their respects, however, in other areas of the capital people celebrated in a joyous manner.

Clashes turned violent and police intervened with tear gas and water cannons in an effort to disperse the crowd.

Poor health has prevented the former dictator from standing trial for allegations of human rights abuses and fraud.

In a statement read by his wife, General Pinochet noted: "Today, close to the end of my days, I want to make clear that I hold no rancour towards anybody, that I love my country above all else."