Chinese authorities say nine new suspects have been arrested inwestern Xinjiang as needle attacks apparently spread outside thecapital of the remote region.
The official newspaper says six were held this week in Hotan, two in Altay and one in Kashgar.
Sincelast week, more than 500 people in the capital of Urumqi have reportedattacks, though only about 100 showed evidence of being pricked.
Earlierthis month, the bizarre stabbings led to mass demonstrations bythousands of Han Chinese against what protesters said was a governmentthat was incapable of guaranteeing their safety.
Officials and state media have blamed the attacks in Urumqi on separatists bent on destroying ethnic unity.
Inearly July, a demonstration by Uighurs turned into a riot in whichnearly 200 people, mostly Han Chinese, were killed. Han Chineselaunched revenge attacks two days later.
Uighurs have longcomplained of discrimination by the Han Chinese, who dominate China'sleadership. The Uighurs say they are denied economic opportunities andare persecuted for their different culture and religion. Beijing saysit treats everyone equally.