Protests turn into 2nd day of riots in central Tunisian town, leave 177 injured

TUNIS, Tunisia – Demonstrations in a central Tunisian town have spun into a second day of riots between police and locals.

The hospital in Siliana said 177 people were treated for injuries Wednesday, including 22 that had to be evacuated to the capital for treatment.

Residents have been demonstrating for more jobs and government investment in this economically deprived interior region. They are also calling for the resignation of the local governor and the release of 14 imprisoned activists.

Police say they were only defending themselves when demonstrators attacked the government building. But Nejib Sebti, head of the labour union that organized the protests, says they were peaceful until residents were attacked by police.