Policeman injured as protests resume in Iraq’s Basra

By Ali Jawad

BAGHDAD (AA) – At least one policeman was injured -- along with an unspecified number of protesters -- after demonstrations erupted on Friday in Iraq's oil-rich Basra province.

Dozens gathered outside Basra’s local government headquarters, where they demanded the dissolution of Basra’s provincial council, tougher anti-corruption measures and more job opportunities.

Violence broke out after demonstrators torched a police van, to which security forces responded with teargas and batons.

“At least one policeman was hurt in the fray when he was struck by a rock thrown by a protester,” Army Lieutenant Mohamed Khalaf told Anadolu Agency.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency by phone, Rafed al-Kenani, a demonstrator, said security forces were using “excessive force” against unarmed protesters.

Since July of last year, Basra -- along with Iraq’s other southern provinces -- have been rocked by sporadic popular protests.

Protesters demand improved public services, more job opportunities and an end to perceived government corruption.