The interior ministry of Niger’s new ruling junta has barred all public demonstrations after supporters of the coup set fire to the party offices of the ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum.

On Thursday, a small number of arsonists broke away from a bigger demonstration outside parliament in support of the coup leaders.

Tear gas was used by police to disperse those who had gathered at the PNDS Tarraya party headquarters, where people were also stoning and burning cars, BBC reported.

“Public demonstrations for any motive whatsoever remain prohibited until further notice. The state will ensure that the law is enforced,” read a statement by the interior ministry.

“These actions, which were perpetrated by lawless individuals, constitute acts of vandalism and wickedness and will not be tolerated,” it added.

Meanwhile, Niger’s military has pledged support for the coup leaders who seized power in the West African country, provoking worldwide condemnation.

The Nigerien army leadership announced Thursday that it backed the apparent seizure of President Mohamed Bazoum’s government in the hopes of minimizing bloodshed and preserving “the well-being of our populations.”

Niger’s presidential office tweeted on Thursday, after the coup was announced that, “The hard-won achievements will be safeguarded. All Nigeriens who love democracy and freedom will see to it.”