Reuters reported on October 22 that Tunisian police used tear gas to disperse protesters in the suburbs of the capital, Etada. Previously, a man arrested for suspected drug trafficking died. On the same day, clashes between police and civilians also occurred in two southern towns.
It is reported that during the conflict, the economic, social, and political crises in Tunisia have worsened. The public is growing increasingly angry over deteriorating living conditions and poor public services. There are concerns that larger-scale violent protests could erupt.
The man's family members stated that he was killed after being violently beaten by police while in custody, and demanded a clarification of the cause of death and punishment for those responsible. However, local media reports said that he died after ingesting narcotics.
Protesters blocked roads, burned tires, and threw stones at police. Security forces responded with tear gas, while also trying to protect a National Guard station in the area.
Earlier on the 22nd, the police encountered protesters in the southern town of Jebenia. A man had died previously, and his relatives claimed he was killed during a pursuit by security forces. A similar conflict also occurred in Agareb City, which is part of Sfax Province.
On the same day, students in Safax held a protest. The incident was caused by the death of a female student due to heart problems. Her classmates said that it took too long for medical personnel to arrive, and pointed out the lack of medical facilities. They also called for strikes by various departments in Safax on Friday.
Last week, thousands of Tunisians participated in the largest anti-presidential protest in recent years in the capital, accusing President Kaes Said of undermining democracy and poor economic governance. This protest poses an increasingly serious challenge to his rule.
