At least five people were killed and 20 injured in communal violence and police firing in the Hyderabad old city forcing the authorities to impose indefinite curfew in eight police station areas early Sunday.

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The police opened fire at Gowlipura, Sultansahai, Moghalpura when teargas shells and lathicharge proved ineffective in controlling the mob indulging in stabbing, loot and arson late Saturday night.

Four persons died due to stabbing while one succumbed to bullet injuries at Osmania General Hospital, where about 20 persons injured in stone pelting and attack were admitted, the police said.

Rapid Action Force troopers have been deployed in the riot-hit areas to maintain peace and order.

Hyderabad Police Commissioner R P Singh reviewed the situation and decided to impose curfew in eight police station areas of Shalibanda, Moghualpura, Bhawani Nagar, Chatrainaka, Meerchowk, Rein Bazar, Dabirpura and Gowlipura.