Violence mars annual protest

Sirens blare on the streets of Santiago one day before the anniversary of the Day of the Young Combatant.

Clashes broke out between angry students and the police-who retaliated with tear gas and water cannons.

Protesters said they were demonstrating against Chile's education system that they claimed favored the wealthy and left out the poor.

Local media said at least 30 people were arrested.

The anniversary is a typically violent event every year and it marks the start of annual anti-government protests in Chile.

The Chilean government has deployed additional police forces to control crowds on Saturday- when the actual anniversary will be observed and the riots are expected to break out in full force.

Pavithra George, Reuters


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