A Chilean court today ordered the release on bail of General Augusto Pinochet’s widow, five children and former associates, two days after they were arrested on corruption charges.

The death of Gen Augusto Pinochet sparked champagne-soaked celebrations, skirmishes with police and displays of lasting devotion as Chileans took an anguished look back at the dictator's 17-year rule.

Former dictator General Augusto Pinochet suffered a mild stroke today, fainting at his home before regaining consciousness at a military hospital, his spokesman said.

General Augusto Pinochet was released from hospital after surgery for a dental infection, the Chilean army said in Santiago.