Authorities in the Belgian city of Liege have banned gatherings of more than three people on the streets amid escalating violence and a series of clashes involving police during student protests, broadcaster VRT reported on Thursday.

The ban, imposed by Liege Mayor Willy Demeyer from 6 am local time (0400GMT), will remain in effect until 11 pm (2100GMT) on Oct. 16.

Demeyer said the presence of large crowds is complicating police operations and increasing risks for students, adding that 43 police officers have been injured during interventions.

The gathering ban includes several exceptions, including members of the same family, minors accompanied by a parent or responsible adult, and pre-approved events.

Despite the restriction, hundreds of pupils and students gathered at the University of Liege on Thursday and began a procession toward the city's railway station.

The measure comes amid police arresting 194 people in the city since Oct. 1, including 114 minors.

Of those arrested, 158 were administratively detained and released within a maximum of 12 hours, while 36 were placed under judicial detention and criminal proceedings were launched.

Police Chief Jean-Marc Demelenne said violence has increased continuously since Oct. 1. He claimed those involved in the unrest include people who have no connection to the students at the center of the demonstrations.

Similarly, Security and Home Affairs Minister Bernard Quintin accused an alleged Antifa-type movement of being active in Liege and of influencing minors to convey violent political messages.

He described the situation as "unacceptable," saying, "We have the right to disagree, but we absolutely do not have the right to destroy everything and attack people."