MINSK. Sept 24 (Interfax) - Protests sparked by Alexander Lukashenko's inauguration on Wednesday developed into clashes with the police and officers had to use special means, Belarusian Interior Ministry spokesperson Olga Chemodanova said.
"Late at night, groups of 10 to 50 people and personal vehicles blocked the traffic way in various parts of the city [Minsk]. Law enforcement officers used special means and hardware to stop massive violations of public peace by aggressive individuals," Chemodanova said.
"The protests turned aggressive and developed into open clashes with law enforcement officers: stones and other things intended for causing physical damage were tossed at the officers," she said, adding that clashes mostly involved people younger than 30.
A number of police officers were wounded, Chemodanova said.