TUNIS, Jan. 9 (Xinhua) -- One civilian was killed during clashes between protesters and police in the northern town of Tebourban, the Tunisian Ministry of Health said Tuesday.

Security forces used tear gas to disperse demonstrators protesting against the recent surge in the prices of several consumer goods.

The victim, 43, who previously suffered from respiratory disorders, lost his life after sucking into too much tear gas, the health ministry said.

Meanwhile, the ministry denied the reports that the victim was shot or hit by a security vehicle.

Five police officers were injured by the rocks thrown from demonstrators.

It is the latest in a series of overnight social campaigns in parts of the country to oppose the government decision to raise the prices of fuel and other products for daily use.