Tunisia Arrests Nearly 200 After Protests

Protesters run for cover during riots in central Tunis on May 8

Nearly 200 people have been arrested in Tunisia following weekend protests in the capital that ended in a street battle.

The state TAP news agency said they were charged with crimes including attacking police with stones, theft, and vandalism.

Riot police used tear gas in Tunis on May 8 to break up a fourth day of protests by scores of youths demanding the departure of the government and Prime Minister Beji Caid Sebsi.

Tensions remain high in Tunisia after the ousting in January of autocratic leader Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali.

compiled from agency reports