Angry Zimbabwean depositors ran amok at a downtown bank, breaking down a door and smashing windows after money ran out to pay withdrawals as cash shortages worsen in the troubled economy.

Witnesses said Monday scores of depositors turned violent after officials at Allied Bank, owned by former mines minister Obert Mpofu, failed to explain why the bank faced cash shortages.

They said riot police fired teargas to disperse the crowd demanding their money.

Witnesses said damage was caused when people thronged to escape into the street. There were no immediate reports of injury or arrests.

In the first similar incident this month, a bank manager in the eastern city of Mutare had to take refuge at the local police station.

Long lines at banks have become a daily sight.