Argentine protest ends in violence

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (CNN) -- Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets as a demonstration in the Argentine capital descended into violence.

They targeted a small group of protesters, in the city's Plaza de Mayo, voicing their opposition to the government's handling of the country's serious economic problems.

According to authorities, 11 civilians and 5 policemen were injured. Argentina's official wire service said at least 30 people were detained.

There were reports that firebombs and stones were hurled at police.

The protests in the nation's capital were part of countrywide demonstrations against political corruption and government economic measures, including banking restrictions.

Hundreds took part in the Buenos Aires demonstration -- but it is not clear how many were embroiled in the violence -- and tens of thousands took part across the country.

They were the first organized, nationwide protests since President Eduardo Duhalde's caretaker government came to power earlier this month.

In Buenos Aires, the protests started in city neighborhoods and ended at the downtown plaza, where thousands beat pots and pans and vented their frustration over the economy.

The violence started at the end of the protest and apparently involved just a remnant of the crowd.

The economic mess in South America's second-largest economy has led to serious political instability.

The country's elected leader, Fernando de la Rua, was forced to resign midway through his term on December 20 after deadly rioting by disgruntled Argentines. Three other caretaker presidents came and went before Duhalde took power.