Four people were killed and 108 others wounded on Saturday in the Iraqi capital Baghdad during anti-government protests, according to security and medical officials.

The incident occurred as security forces cleared three main bridges over the Tigris river following an escalation of the protests.

Reports said Iraqi security forces fired live ammunition at protesters in central Baghdad on Saturday morning, hours after they cleared three flashpoint bridges of anti-government protesters.

Medical officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said security forces dispersed protesters from the Sinak bridge using stun grenades and tear gas.

These latest confrontations are believed to be among the most intense since protests erupted.

More than 250 people have been killed since demonstrations began over a lack of jobs and services in Baghdad at the beginning of October and extended to the south.