A court in Chad has handed jail terms of up to three years to more than 260 people who were arrested after deadly protests in October.

The mass trial took place in a high-security prison in the desert. Defence lawyers boycotted proceedings, arguing that the trial itself was not legal.

More than 400 people faced charges, including taking part in an unauthorised gathering and disturbing public order.

Officials said about 50 people died during October's nationwide pro-democracy protests - including 10 members of the security forces.

Rights groups said more than 100 people were killed by security forces.

Source: BBC