ALGIERS, Jan. 22 (Saba) -- Seven policemen and an opposition lawmaker were wounded on Saturday after clashes erupted between police and protestors in the capital of Algiers in a demonstration called by an opposition party, the official APS news agency reported.

Two of the wounded are in critical condition, the APS said, adding five protesters were arrested.

The Rally for Culture and Democracy (RCD), an opposition party, called last week for staging a peaceful march in the capital to launch a protest while local el-Khabar newspaper said the security forces cordoned off roads leading to the protest venue in the capital.

The government has warned Algerians against joining the demonstration as there is a ban on marches and demonstrations in the capital.

"Algerians should be vigilant and exercise wisdom and not respond to provocation that aims to disturb calm," it said in a statement on Friday.

"Marches in Algiers are not allowed" and that "any gathering on the street is considered a breach of public order," it added.

The protestors Saturday morning rallied outside the headquarters of the RCD at Didouche Mourad street in downtown Algiers, Xinhua correspondent witnessed.

Small groups consisting of activists and representatives of the RCD attempted to walk towards the Hassiba Ben Bouali street, but were dispersed peacefully by equipped police, according to APS.

Earlier this month, riots and protests broke out across the oil- rich north African country. Four men have been killed and 800, including 736 policemen, have been wounded in the protests.


Saba