VIDEO: Anti-government protests in Peru as police use force

Thousands of people have taken to the streets of Peru's capital to express their dissatisfaction with the government's performance, reports Interfax, citing Spanish-language media.

Police have deployed tear gas to disperse the protesters after clashes broke out between demonstrators and law enforcement. The protests in Lima began just hours after President Dina Boluarte called for a "ceasefire" with protesters who have been demonstrating for nearly two months.

The blockade of roads and damage to infrastructure has caused a halt in production activities, estimated to exceed $1 billion. Reports indicate that the protests in the capital are among the largest and most intense in recent times.

Protests in Peru began in early December following a political crisis and have expanded to 11 regions across the country. Protesters are demanding the resignation of President Dina Boluarte, the dissolution of Congress, the holding of general elections in 2023, and the convening of a constitutional assembly.