Protest in Argentina organized by retirees turns violent

Security forces clashed with demonstrators Wednesday in Argentina’s capital Buenos Aires at a protest organized by retirees that was joined by soccer fans, unions and progressive groups.

Police used tear gas and water cannons against the demonstrators, which included the elderly, women and young people.

Videos circulating on social media captured police beating and dragging protesters, including footage of an 87-year-old woman sustaining a head injury while others attempted to assist her.

Some soccer fans threw sticks and cans at officers, who responded with shields. A significant police presence, estimated at 800 officers, suppressed the demonstration.

The retirees, who routinely protest outside the National Congress on Wednesday afternoons, were demanding higher pensions and improved living conditions.

This week, they were joined by supporters from several prominent soccer clubs, including Boca Juniors, River Plate, Independiente, Racing, Estudiantes and Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata, who marched with slogans such as "We are with the retirees" and "We will march."

Hours before the protests, Security Minister Patricia Bullrich announced the deployment of the armed forces.

"Our forces are deployed to enforce the protocol. Traffic is not blocked, and hooligans will stay on the sidewalk,” Bullrich said.

Tensions escalated near Congress around 5.30 p.m. when infantry and motorcycle police used rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse a group of protesters. Clashes continued, with protesters throwing objects at the police.