I don't think they started peaceful at all, it seemed like the craziness started immediately and now the violence is starting even outside of the protests. There are parts of the city I avoid entirely. The main street near the parliament building I'll just stay well away from the moment the sun starts going down. And another district that has seen daytime robberies that I'm entirely avoiding too. It feels like a lawless land recently.
It baffles me that foreigners are even considering participating in these protests too. I have no idea why a non-citizen would find themselves in that environment. Even those with the temporary residency have no business in them.
Many have no clue to culture, history nor people, yet follow like sheep shouting abuse at those whom they do not know!
Stay safe always....