Authorities report that at least 17 people have been killed in southeast Peru as a result of skirmishes between supporters of the previous president and security personnel.
Some of the worst violence since ex-President Pedro Castillo was jailed last month for trying to dissolve Congress took place on Monday in the city of Juliaca, leaving dozens more injured.
His backers have been blocking highways and holding protests for weeks.
They want immediate elections and insist that incoming President Dina Boluarte must resign.
Political turmoil in Peru has taken a dramatic turn.
Alberto Otárola, the country’s prime minister, has condemned the violence in Juliaca, calling it an “organized attack on police.”
In his words, “thousands of people” had attempted to storm the city’s airport and a police station.
The AFP news agency cited a demonstrator as saying, “The cops are firing at us.”
“That’s why we’re requesting Dina’s resignation. Recognize that no one really wants you, “the demonstrator added.
A center of anti-government protests, Juliaca is part of the Puno area.
Years of political unrest in the South American country culminated in December when President Castillo dissolved Congress and declared a state of emergency.
In spite of this, a majority of Representatives voted to impeach him in Congress.
Mr. Castillo, who has been detained, is the subject of a rebellion and conspiracy investigation. He refutes every allegation and maintains his legitimacy as president.