Following Friday's turmoil in Lhasa, the regional government of Tibet has suspended handling the application of foreigners to travel to Tibet for safety concerns, said a local official.

"We also suggest foreign tourists now in Tibet to leave in the coming days," said Ju Jianhua, director with the region's foreign affairs office.

As of Sunday, more than 20 foreign tourists had left Tibet safely with the help of local government, he said.

Ju's office, together with local civil aviation, railway and highway departments would provide convenience for the foreign travelers who want to leave, said the official.

An outburst of commotion broke the peace of Lhasa on Friday afternoon. Sources with the local government said on Saturday that at least 10 people were confirmed dead, mostly civilians who were burned.

Lhasa police have rescued more than 580 people, including three Japanese tourists, from the violent array of sabotage.

(Xinhua News Agency March 17, 2008)