A protest organized by retirees in Buenos Aires turned violent, resulting in at least 20 injuries and 103 arrests. Police utilized tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd, which included support from soccer fans. Incidents of police brutality were documented, raising concerns about the treatment of protesters. Amid the unrest, retirees called for better pensions and living conditions.
On Wednesday, demonstrators in Buenos Aires clashed with security forces during a protest organized by retirees. The gathering, which drew support from football fans, unions, and progressive groups, resulted in at least 20 injuries and over 100 arrests. The demonstration included individuals of all ages, and police were seen employing tear gas and water cannons against the crowd.
Eyewitness accounts and videos shared on social media showed instances of police brutality, including an incident where an 87-year-old woman sustained injuries while others tried to come to her aid. Among the injured was Argentine photojournalist Pablo Grillo, who faced serious harm from a gas canister during his coverage of the event.
Violent clashes escalated as some soccer fans engaged in confrontations, throwing objects at police, while officers, supported by 800 personnel, used shields for protection. The retirees traditionally advocate for improved pensions and living conditions, and this occasion was notable for the presence of several prominent football clubs expressing solidarity with the retirees.
Ahead of the protests, Security Minister Patricia Bullrich confirmed that armed forces would be deployed to maintain order. Bullrich stated, “Our forces are deployed to enforce the protocol. Traffic is not blocked, and hooligans will stay on the sidewalk.”
The protests intensified around 5:30 p.m. local time, leading to violent confrontations as police resorted to rubber bullets and tear gas to clear crowds near the National Congress, further escalating tensions between demonstrators and law enforcement.
The protest in Buenos Aires highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by retirees in Argentina, emphasizing their demand for better pensions and living conditions. The violent outcome of the demonstration, coupled with the significant police response, raises concerns regarding the treatment of protesters, particularly the elderly and vulnerable. The solidarity shown by football fans underlines the broader social support for the retirees’ cause, while calls for law enforcement accountability persist.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr