Thousands of people protested in the Kosovar capital of Pristina, calling for the resignation of government Minister Aleksandar Jablanovic and the nationalization of Trepca mine company.

Thousands of people protested in the Kosovar capital of Pristina, calling for the resignation of government Minister Aleksandar Jablanovic and the nationalization of Trepca mine company.

The protest began around noon Tuesday, organized by the country's major opposition movement, called Self-determination. Protesters threw stones at the police, who used tear gas in return.

Earlier, police had erected iron barricades to block access to a nearby government building.

The clashes continued until evening. Demonstrators returned and threw stones. rods and other objects at police. Special police units dispersed the demonstrators with tear gas and water cannon.

Police said about 100 people were injured, 72 of them police officers. They said 160 demonstrators were taken to the police station for questioning and further legal procedures.

Also, 26 people sought medical help, according to the Emergency Center.

Kosovo President Atifete Jahjaga urged people in a written statement to keep order in the streets and squares, and to maintain peace.

At a press conference, Prime Minister Isa Mustafa read a government statement condemning the violence by demonstrators. Mustafa said he believed the protest was intended to topple the government.

The clashes caused considerable damage to vehicles and police equipment.

Twelve people were injured and 22 were arrested in an similar protest Saturday that was aimed to set a deadline of 48 hours to replace Jablanovic.