1st LD Writethru: At least 17 killed in DR Congo protests

At least 17 people, including three policemen, were killed Monday in heavy clashes between protesters and police in Kinshasa, capital of Democratic Republic of Congo, the country's minister of interior said.

"The death toll is 17, including three policemen. Several banks have been burned," said Evariste Boshab, the minister.

Police on Monday fired teargas to disperse protesters who marched in the capital against President Joseph Kabila's perceived step to extend his mandate, demanding that presidential elections be held on time.

Heavy columns of smoke were seen in many areas in the capital and in some spots heavy clashes were witnessed as protesters threw stones at police who in turn fired teargas to disperse the crowd.

Burnt tires were seen on the streets in the capital as several streets and avenues were blocked.

A police officer told Xinhua earlier Monday that the opposition protesters did not respect the engagements of itinerary as agreed by the authorities, and that the police were right to resist.

According to the nation's Constitution, the country is scheduled to hold its presidential election on Sept. 20. However, the electoral commission said the election has to be postponed until a voter registrar is completed, which the opposition rejects. Endit