Relatives of the 43 students who went missing in southern Mexico have led mass protests in the capital, decrying corruption and the spread of the drug gangs.  Many of the families are holding out hope, and do not believe the government’s claim that the 43 were murdered and crudely cremated by one of the drug gangs.

“It’s been almost two months without knowing where they are.  We don't know anything and we’re desperate,” said Francisco Lagro, father of one of the missing.  “What are they doing?  In what conditions?  Do they get any water or food?  Are they tied up?  We have so many questions.”

The families led thousands through three planned marches in Mexico City, and they converged on the capital’s main square, Zocalo.  Many shops and businesses along the routes were closed for the day in anticipation of violence.  It turned out to be good planning.

Some of those who accept that the 43 students were killed donned masks and grabbed Molotov cocktails to throw at riot police.  Earlier, they clashed at the city's international airport at the start of the day's demonstrations, burning tires and throwing firebombs.