FREETOWN, SIERRA LEONE-Reports from Sierra Leone people have been killed after police opened fire on anti-Government protesters in the capital, Freetown.

Clashes broke out when demonstrators set up roadblocks.  Six police officer are reported to be among the dead.

The protests are against the rising cost of living, corruption and police brutality.

Protests have also taken place in several towns in the north of the country.

The Government has declared a nationwide curfew and observers say there is a near-total shutdown of the internet.

Footage posted on the social media appears to show large crowds of people in the streets of Freetown.