MADAGASCAR’S government has imposed a nighttime curfew following protests against ongoing water and power cuts, in which police used rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse the demonstrators.

Hundreds of people took to the streets on the Indian Ocean island on Thursday to voice their anger at persistent power cuts, which often leave homes and businesses without electricity for over 12 hours.

The protesters barricaded roads with burning tyres and rocks. By the afternoon, there were reported incidents of looting at various shops, appliance stores and banks across the capital.

Several stations of the country’s new cable tram system were also set on fire.

Local media reported that three homes of politicians known to be close to President Nirina Rajoelina had been attacked by protesters.

Police chief Angelo Ravelonarivo announced that an overnight curfew would be strictly enforced until calm was restored.

Messages displayed on protesters’ placards included: “Water and electricity are basic human needs,” “Let us speak out” and “Malagasy people, wake up.”

Some carried black flags featuring the One Piece skull logo, an emblem of anti-government protests in Nepal in recent weeks, but this time topped with a traditional Malagasy hat.

It was unclear how many people were injured during the protests or if there had been any deaths.