Protesters attacked a police van smearing it in blue paint before kicking a metal barricade during violent clashes in Bangkok, Thailand, on Tuesday (November 17).

Police fired water cannons laced with purple dye and teargas at anti-government demonstrators, who had gathered in the capital.

Dozens of protesters, including BBC reporter Jonathan Head, were hit during the clashes.

The protest group "Free Youth" said the youngest person injured during the chaos is in elementary school.

Activists are calling for sweeping reforms, including a new constitution and the resignation of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha.

Protesters attacked a police van smearing it in blue paint before kicking a metal barricade during violent clashes in Bangkok, Thailand, on Tuesday (November 17).

Police fired water cannons laced with purple dye and an apparent teargas chemical at demonstrators, who had gathered in the capital and started marching towards the Government House.

Dozens of protesters, including BBC reporter Jonathan Head, were hit during the clashes.

Independent onlookers and reporters hit by the water confirmed that it contained irritant chemicals. Protest group "Free Youth" said the youngest person injured during the chaos is in elementary school.

Smoke bombs were also hurled during a tense stand-off outside a government building where barbed wire barricades were also set up.

Anti-government protests have swept the nation in recent months.

Activists are calling for sweeping reforms including a new constitution, the resignation of the Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha and reforms of the monarchy.