Security forces use live ammunition to disperse protest, northwest of Baghdad
Iraq suffers from acute financial crisis due to dropped oil prices and anti-terrorism expenses [File photo]
Speaking to Alghad Press, the source said, “Rioting police in al-Shoala region dispersed a protest of around 300 demonstrators using live ammunition.”
Some entrances were closed, the source added.
Moreover, the forces closed exits of al-Aamel district in Baghdad, preventing any gatherings there, Almaalomah website reported.
The troops were highly deployed there, closing exits that lead to Baghdad airport street.
Earlier today,the Iraqi Health Ministry said eight people have been killed so far as a result of protests that started last week in Basra and extended to other southern provinces within a few days. Security forces arrested 65 protesters in Muthanna governorate as protests entered their eighth day.
Mass protests were staged on Friday, while hundreds of Iraqis stormed the airport, suspending the fights due to poor services offered by the government and corruption.
Several civilians as well as security personnel were wounded in clashes with armed people, who attacked the protesters in Maysan province.
Issues with internet services were reported across the protests-hit regions.