Ecuador's neighbours closed crossings in a show of support for Mr Correa, who had to be rescued by soldiers from a hospital surrounded by angry police.

Afterwards, the president vowed in a TV address to punish those responsible.

The national police chief has resigned in the wake of the unrest, which left two people dead and dozens injured.

After General Freddy Martinez stepped down, President Correa appointed Patricio Franco as new police chief in his place, and ordered him to reform the country's police.

The revolt was triggered by a new law cutting bonuses and benefits for public servants, including police and military personnel.

Mr Correa, a 47-year-old US-trained economist, took office in 2007 and won a second term in 2009 - despite a decision to default on $3.2 billion of loans which caused widespread fiscal problems for his government.