A protest in Buenos Aires organized by retirees turned violent, leading to 20 injuries and over 100 arrests. Police used tear gas and rubber bullets against demonstrators, including elderly individuals. The protest aimed to demand higher pensions and saw support from football fans and unions, reflecting broader public discontent.
On Wednesday, a protest organized by retirees in Buenos Aires escalated into violence, resulting in at least 20 injuries and 103 arrests. The demonstration, aimed at advocating for higher pensions and better living conditions, attracted not only retirees but also football fans and union members, igniting tensions with security forces.
Amid the upheaval, police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds, which included elderly individuals and young participants. Eyewitness accounts and social media videos depicted police using excessive force, with disturbing images showing an 87-year-old woman injured during the altercation, as well as serious injuries sustained by Argentine photojournalist Pablo Grillo, resulting from a gas canister hit.
The protest was marked by significant police presence, estimated at 800 officers, responding to hostile actions from some football fans, who hurled objects at the authorities. This week, the retirees from various unions were united by support from prominent football clubs like Boca Juniors and River Plate, who expressed solidarity through chants and signs.
In anticipation of potential unrest, Security Minister Patricia Bullrich confirmed the involvement of armed forces, stating that enforcement measures would ensure traffic remained clear and hooliganism was monitored. The situation intensified around 5:30 p.m. local time as clashes ensued, and police retaliated with non-lethal weaponry.
The Buenos Aires protest underscored the ongoing struggles of retirees in Argentina, calling attention to their demands for higher pensions amid a volatile social environment. Violence erupted as police employed forceful tactics against demonstrators, raising concerns over the treatment of vulnerable populations during civil protests. The involvement of diverse groups, including football fans, highlights widespread public discontent.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
