Guards of Lebanese parliament deny opening fire during Beirut protests

Lebanese parliamentary guards have denied accusations that they opened fire during recent protests in central Beirut.

In a statement Friday, parliament police said the guards had maintained their positions inside parliament during Saturday's protests.

It came in response to statements by Lebanese Interior Minister Nihad al Mashnouq, in which blamed the parliamentary guards for opening fire during the protests.

The statement said that parliament police are waiting for the outcome of the judicial probe in this regard.

Saturday and Sunday saw the biggest demonstration by far since garbage began piling up on the streets after the capital's main landfill was closed a month ago.

The government has been unable to find an alternative system for waste management amid government paralysis and bickering among politicians.

The health minister has warned of a catastrophe as some have started dumping trash in valleys, rivers and near the sea.

The clashes escalated on Saturday and Sunday after protesters accused the government of corruption and political dysfunction amid a trash crisis.

The army and police took action against the protesters who had committed violent acts in the capital's downtown.

Source: MENA