BEIRUT — Witnesses say at least 15 Syrian protesters have been killed today during clashes with security forces.

Security forces fired live bullets and tear gas today at tens of thousands of people shouting for freedom and democracy in several areas across the country.

Witnesses said they saw at least five corpses at the Hamadan hospital outside the capital. All suffered gunshot wounds.

In the southern province of Daraa, other witnesses said at least 10 people were killed when protesters marched in front of the mayor’s office. They said an 11-year-old boy was among the dead.

The witnesses spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals.

Security forces have launched a deadly crackdown on a monthlong uprising against Syria’s authoritarian regime. More than 200 people have been killed.