Protests Banned in Capital in Wake of Riots

The government has banned all demonstrations in the capital, Algiers, following fierce rioting last week during a massive pro-democracy demonstration.

For two months, the military-backed government has been grappling with violent protests that have left at least 55 people dead. The unrest began among ethnic Berbers in the eastern Kabyle region but has spread to Algiers.

Three police officers were reported killed and dozens of people hurt Monday during riots in Kabyle.

In a statement Monday, the government said it was determined “to tackle serious excesses . . . during the tragic and painful events that have taken place in recent days.”