A special police commando (C) makes an obscene gesture to rebels inside the Japanese ambassador's residence in Lima January 27, from atop his perch on a Caspir armoured personnel carrier. Within seconds after making the gesture, several shots were fired into the air by rebels within the compound. In a show of force, police blasted music on loud speakers which were placed near the residence earlier in the day. Tupac Amaru rebels seized the diplomatic compound December 17 and continue to hold 72 hostages.

PERU JAPAN