Protesters throw fireworks at police at anti-government rally in Tirana

Some protesters threw fireworks at security forces during an anti-government rally in Albania's capital Tirana on Saturday. Thousands took part, and police moved in with tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd.

Play video: Protesters throw fireworks at police at anti-government rally in Tirana (Duration 0:15)

The rally began outside the Education Ministry, a focal point of the protests. Soon after it started, a group of demonstrators hurled stones at the building, many of whose windows had been smashed in previous days. Riot police responded with water cannon, tear gas and rubber bullets. Protesters were also reported to have tried to break through the police cordon, throwing fireworks, flares and various objects at officers.

Tension since mid-October

Protesters and police have clashed regularly in Tirana since mid-October. The demonstrations grew from rallies against a development linked to the family of US President Donald Trump into a broader anti-government movement. According to the authorities, several government buildings have been attacked, dozens of demonstrators detained and more than 300 protesters and police injured.

The health ministry said 13 people were injured in Saturday's demonstrations, including nine demonstrators, two journalists and three police officers. Groups representing university professors, artists and opposition parties had declared their support. Many shops closed, some with signs on their shutters reading: "Don't touch. We're with you."

There is a lot of anger.

Activist Sidorela Vatnikaj

Calling the movement a "revolution", Vatnikaj said it was not only about environmental struggles but about the state of rights and the rule of law. First-year medical student Rosela Mira said they were on the streets because they want to stay in their country and not have to dream of a life elsewhere. Organisers called for fresh protests on Sunday from 1200 GMT.