Political tensions rose across the Democratic Republic of Congo on Tuesday as opposition supporters took to the streets against proposed constitutional reforms.
In Kinshasa, clashes broke out between opposition protesters and supporters of the government.
Police responded with tear gas.
The confrontation occurred during a rally organised by the C64 opposition coalition.
C64 calls for nationwide action
The opposition coalition had called for demonstrations across the country.
The group is campaigning against proposed changes to the constitution.
Opposition parties have accused President Felix Tshisekedi of seeking constitutional changes that would allow him to seek a third term.
Hundreds of people joined the protest in Kinshasa.
The demonstrators carried party flags and gathered along the planned march route.
Protest turns violent
The demonstration initially drew a heavy police presence.
Riot officers were positioned at key points around the capital.
Trouble started after the march began.
Pro-government activists and opposition supporters clashed.
Police then fired tear gas to break up the confrontation.
At least two protesters were injured, according to AFP journalists who witnessed the incident.
Security response in Lubumbashi
The unrest was not limited to Kinshasa.
In Lubumbashi, activists gathered despite a ban imposed by local authorities.
Police used tear gas and warning shots to disperse the crowd.
Several people were arrested, according to an AFP journalist.
Mohamed Eyenga of the opposition Envol party described the security operation as excessive.
He claimed that opposition activists were arrested during the protest.
Police give different account
General Blaise Kilimbalimba, the provincial police commander, rejected the allegation that peaceful protesters had been arrested.
He said the police were working to ensure residents could carry out their normal activities.
The commander also said the situation remained calm.
Mbandaka protest disrupted
Another demonstration was reported in Mbandaka, the capital of Equateur Province.
Local authorities had banned the protest.
Despite the ban, around 100 activists reportedly gathered in the city centre.
Security officers later dispersed the crowd.
About 10 people were arrested, according to an AFP journalist at the scene.
The latest protests highlight the growing political tension surrounding the proposed constitutional changes in the DRC.
