The security situation has significantly improved, Tunisian Interior Minister Hedi Majdoub said on Saturday.

Since the outbreak of protests, the security institution has intervened in respect for the republican principles, he added.

The minister told Tunisia's news agency TAP, that if the right to assembly is guaranteed by the constitution, damage to public property and vital sites is a red line that must not be crossed.

He cautioned against acts of looting and vandalism that is "aimed to distort peaceful protests and get them out of their context."

On the non-intervention of the police in some areas, such as Ettadhamen neighborhood, deplored by some citizens, Majdoub spoke of the reduced number of law enforcement personnel at the time of the unrest (1 to 2 officers) who generally expect the arrival of reinforcements to intervene properly.

About 26 vehicles belonging to security officers have been damaged, nine police stations vandalized, two premises invaded by vandals and eight others evacuated until Friday night, said the minister.

The Interior Ministry will prosecute any individual involved in these acts targeting the premises and its officers, he said.

Source: MENA