Clashes broke out in several Tunisian cities after deaths involving police operations and an alleged delay in emergency services intensified public anger.

Tunis, Tunisia — Tunisian police fired tear gas at protesters in the Ettadhamen suburb of the capital on Thursday as demonstrations erupted over the death of a man who had been detained on suspicion of drug dealing.

The man’s family accused police of using violence against him, alleging that he died as a result of mistreatment while in custody.

A security source cited by local media offered a different account, saying the man had swallowed drugs during a police operation.

Authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

The incident triggered confrontations between protesters and security forces, adding to wider unrest over alleged police misconduct, public services and government accountability.

Police Clash With Protesters in Tunis Suburb

Protesters took to the streets of Ettadhamen, blocking roads, burning tyres and throwing stones at police officers.

Security forces responded with tear gas as they attempted to disperse the crowds.

The demonstrations followed growing anger among residents over the man’s death, with his relatives demanding answers about what happened during his detention.

The family’s allegations have not been independently established, and investigators have yet to announce their findings.

The clashes were among several incidents of unrest reported in different parts of Tunisia.

Protests Spread to Jebiniana and Agareb

Separate confrontations were reported in Jebiniana and Agareb following another death that relatives linked to a police chase.

Protesters gathered in the affected areas, where tensions with security forces led to further disturbances.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the second death.

The incidents have intensified public scrutiny of police conduct, particularly in communities where residents have raised concerns about the treatment of people during security operations.

Sfax Students Protest Death Linked to Alleged Ambulance Delay

In the coastal city of Sfax, students also held demonstrations following the death of a female student.

Protesters blamed what they described as a delayed ambulance response, raising questions about access to emergency medical services.

The circumstances surrounding the response have not been independently verified.

The student demonstrations added another dimension to the unrest, reflecting concerns over the quality and reliability of public services.

Tunisia Faces Renewed Unrest Amid Political and Economic Frustration

The latest clashes come weeks after thousands of Tunisians demonstrated in the capital against President Kais Saied’s administration.

That protest brought together people expressing concerns about economic conditions, public services and political freedoms.

Tunisia has faced continuing public debate over the government’s handling of economic pressures and the role of state institutions.

The latest demonstrations have brought those concerns back into focus, with separate incidents involving police conduct and emergency services prompting protests in several communities.

Investigations into the deaths remain ongoing, and authorities have yet to establish the full circumstances of the incidents.