ISTANBUL (BNO NEWS) -- Clashes broke out between police and a group of demonstrators on Thursday during a peace rally in the Turkish city of Istanbul, Hurriyet Daily News reported.

The violence erupted during a rally marking International Day of Peace in Istanbul's Kadıköy district after some protesters did not allow police officers to search them before entering the square. A masked group assaulted police officers with sticks, which prompted riot police to fire tear gas canisters.

The group left the rally, which was being held under the leadership of the Peace and Democracy Party, after hurling Molotov cocktails at police. A large number of locals were caught in the clash between the police and the masked group.

A number of people were injured, but police did not immediately give a number.

The International Day of Peace, also known as World Peace Day, takes place on September 21 around the world. In Turkey, however, the day is observed on the first day of September.