Protests and looting broke out in parts of Venezuela on Friday due to a lack of cash after the socialist government suddenly pulled the nation's largest banknote from circulation in the midst of a brutal economic crisis, The Guardian reported.

Tens of shops are looted. According to one of deputies from opposition, three people were killed during the riots in the mining town of El Callao. The government, however, has not confirmed this information. Two banks were also attacked.

In Caracas, thousands of people lined up in front of the Central Bank to manage to exchange the banknotes withdrawn from circulation till a deadline - on December 20.