Kairouan, Tunisia – For the second consecutive night, the Ali Bay neighborhood in Kairouan, central Tunisia, has been the scene of intense clashes between young residents and security forces. The unrest follows the death of Naim al-Buraiki, a young man whose family alleges died from injuries sustained during an altercation with police officers two months ago.
According to local media reports and social media posts from activists, security forces deployed tear gas to disperse protesters who reportedly threw stones and set tires ablaze. The demonstrators are demanding justice for al-Buraiki, claiming his death was a direct result of police brutality.
A video shared on social media by a relative of al-Buraiki alleges that the 30-year-old was pursued by police while riding his motorcycle. The relative claims al-Buraiki did not stop for police due to lacking proper documentation for the vehicle. The video alleges the police vehicle intentionally struck his motorcycle, causing him to fall, after which, four officers allegedly physically assaulted him. Al-Buraiki was then reportedly taken to the hospital due to his deteriorating condition.
The family alleges that al-Buraiki escaped from the hospital and returned home, but his health worsened, leading them to readmit him. They claim he suffered a brain hemorrhage as a result of the alleged beating. His sister, Amani al-Buraiki, confirmed via Facebook that a widely circulated image of her brother’s head injury was authentic and documented by him prior to his death. She has called for justice and accountability.
Political activist Tariq Omrani commented on the situation, stating that the incident occurs within a context of increased restrictions on freedoms and a return to a heavier security presence. He cited concerns about instances of unexplained deaths within Tunisian prisons in recent months, as documented by human rights organizations. These organizations have warned against a growing culture of impunity.
Omrani added that the situation reflects a pattern of excessive force used against protests, such as those in Gabes and Sidi Bouzid, where authorities have opted for a security-focused approach. He expressed fears of a return to practices reminiscent of a police state, particularly with increasing constraints on public space.
