Africa

Africa

Clashes between protesters, police continue for third day in Tunisian town

29 November 2012 22:52 (UTC +04:00)

Baku-APA. Tensions remained high Thursday in Tunisian Siliana town, as clashes between protesters and police entered the third day, leaving more than 250 people injured, APA reports quoting local media.

Fresh clashes between protesters and police and army units were reported Thursday evening in Siliana, some 120 km from the capital, with teargas being fired, Mosaique FM said.

Police is reported to have entered the homes of some protesters to arrest them, the radio added.

Earlier Thursday, TAP said security forces had withdrawn from the town at the request of local inhabitants. However, by the end of the day reinforcements were called in, local media reported.

In an address delivered Thursday, Tunisian Prime Minister Hamadi Jebali condemned the violence and stressed the losses occasioned by the latest clashes.

According to latest estimates released by local medical source, at least 19 people were shot in the face and eyes with pellets and a number of them run the risk of becoming blind.

Siliana is affected by chronic poverty and joblessness. Many of the protesters also voiced their anger against the government, which they said failed to fulfill the people's aspirations for better living conditions.