Angry protesters then marched into the homes of ruling party politicians. There was also a violent clash between people who support the government and anti-government protesters. Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa announced his departure the same day.
injured
At least eight people, including two officers, were killed in the violence and more than 200 people were injured. In addition, dozens of houses and cars were damaged.
The government has meanwhile enlisted the help of the army to assist the police. The country has been under a state of emergency since Friday and a curfew has recently been imposed.