Santiago de Chile, November 8 (RHC)-- Chilean police used water cannons on protesters in Santiago on Thursday after Chile's president announced tougher sanctions to crack down on violent protests in the region.

President Sebastian Pinera plans to increase security in the area after protests have led to at least 20 deaths.  Pinera said on Thursday that the measures that he'll send to the congress include bills against looting and the destruction of property, and legislation that will seek the re-enforcement of aerial surveillance and police intelligence to fight crime.

The unrest began 21 days ago over a hike to subway fares, and it has grown into a massive movement demanding a broad range of changes.   Most protests have been peaceful, but some have turned violent with daily clashes between police and demonstrators.