Iraqi protesters storm Al-Diwaniyah provincial council

Unconfirmed deaths of protesters reported in clashes with security forces, police officer says

By Hussein al-Amir

BAGHDAD (AA) - Angry protesters on Friday stormed the provincial council in the Shia-dominated Al-Diwaniyah in southern Iraq, according to a police officer.

"Hundreds of demonstrators stormed provincial council's building after violent clashes with security forces," Police Lieutenant Jassim al-Tamimi told Anadolu Agency.

Dozens of demonstrators were injured by gunfire and police forces were injured by stones in the clashes.

The police officer added that "there are unconfirmed reports of deaths among the demonstrators as a result of the clashes".

At least 42 people have been killed and some 2,500 others injured since the anti-government protests erupted throughout Iraq on Tuesday.

Protesters have been demanding improvement in living conditions and an end to corruption. Security forces have reportedly opened fire on protesters to disperse them, causing mass casualties.

* Writing by Mahmoud Barakat

Kaynak:

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