China's Four-Prolonged Strategy To Curb Hong Kong Protests Dismiss, Distract, Threaten, Discredit - China has been employing this four-pronged approach to tackle the protests in Hong Kong. Beijing first dismissed protests as 'illegal', then tried distraction-tactics. China's representatives have provoked violence. What's more? Now Beijing blames the U.S. Palki summarises

Gravitas: Deciphering China's strategy in Hong Kong

As China Discredits The Hong Kong Protests, Here's A Look At The History Of Such Protests People's movements have been consistently put down by rulers. The ones in power admonish such protests and allege foreign intervention. Be it the stance against Anna Hazare's India Against Corruption movement or the Iranian protests in early 2018 or the 1974 students protests in Bihar, rulers discredit protests. Here's a report.

Gravitas: How rulers discredit people's protests

China's People's Liberation Army in Hong Kong released a video showing footage of "anti-riot" exercises. Watch full video to know more.

China's army garrison in Hong Kong releases video with scenes of ánti-riot'operations

As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-appear-in-court-to-face-riot-charge-239669">Hong Kong's political crisis</a> simmers amidst heated protests, China's People's Liberation Army in Hong Kong released a video showing footage of "anti-riot" exercises and its top brass warned violence is "absolutely impermissible".

The three-minute video posted on the Hong Kong garrison's official Weibo social media account late on Wednesday included footage of troops firing guns and rockets, and of light tanks, attack helicopters and missile launchers.

The PLA has remained in barracks since protests started in April, leaving Hong Kong's police force to deal with the massive and often violent protests in the Asian financial hub.

On Wednesday, 44 people were charged with rioting, the first time authorities have resorted to using the rioting charge.

In one sequence in the PLA video, titled "anti-riot drill footage", ranks of troops advance with shields and truncheons on protesters, firing rifles into the air. Tear gas and water cannons rained down on protesters, as armoured personnel carriers with battering rams raced forward, and troops laid barbed wire coils on the ground.

"All consequences are at your own risk," one soldier shouted in Cantonese, the main Chinese dialect in Hong Kong, during the video clip.

A red flag with the words "Warning. Stop charging or we use force" was also held aloft, similar to what Hong Kong police have long used during protests.

At the end of the clip, several protesters with their hands cuffed can be seen being taken away.

Hong Kong has been plunged into its biggest political crisis since the former British colony's return to Chinese rule in 1997 with a wave of protests against a now suspended extradition bill which would see people sent to mainland <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-begun-purchasing-farm-goods-says-china-after-resuming-trade-talks-with-us-239902">China</a> for trial in Communist Party-controlled courts.

The protests which started in April have now transformed into broader demands including the resignation of Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam, and calls for a "free Hong Kong".

As tensions continue to rise, clashes between protesters and police have become increasingly violent.

Chinese authorities have strongly condemned the violence and issued reminders that Hong Kong authorities can request the assistance of the PLA Hong Kong garrison if necessary.

Diplomats and foreign security analysts are watching the situation closely, but believe there's little appetite in Beijing for the PLA to be deployed on the streets of Hong Kong.

The role of the PLA in Hong Kong has long been one of the most sensitive elements of the city's handover to China.

"We believe that the Hong Kong garrison of the People's Liberation Army will continue to become a stabilising pillar for Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a briefing in Beijing when asked about the video.

Amid growing speculation troops could be unleashed to quell the violence, police chiefs have insisted their forces are capable of maintaining order.

Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule with a guarantee of its freedoms, including the right to protest and an independent judiciary not enjoyed on the mainland, for at least 50 years.

Under its mini-constitution, the Basic Law, defence and foreign affairs are managed by Communist Party leaders in Beijing.

Chen Daoxiang, the commander of the PLA's Hong Kong garrison said on Wednesday the violent protests in Hong Kong are "absolutely impermissible" according to the state-run China Daily newspaper.

Speaking at a reception to mark the 92nd anniversary of the PLA, Chen said the protests were "putting the bottom line of the "one country, two systems" principle to the test".

He added the PLA would "resolutely safeguard" the country's sovereignty and security, as well as Hong Kong's stability.

In July, Reuters reported that Chen had assured a Pentagon official that Chinese troops will not interfere in the city's affairs despite the political upheaval.

As Hong Kong's political crisis simmers amidst heated protests, China's People's Liberation Army in Hong Kong released a video showing footage of "anti-riot" exercises and its top brass warned violence is "absolutely impermissible".

As Hong Kong's political crisis simmers amidst heated protests, China's People's Liberation Army in Hong Kong released a video showing footage of "anti-riot" exercises and its top brass warned violence is "absolutely impermissible". The three-minute video posted on the Hong Kong garrison's official Weibo social media account late on Wednesday included footage of troops firing guns and rockets, and of light tanks, attack helicopters and missile launchers. The PLA has remained in barracks since protests started in April, leaving Hong Kong's police force to deal with the massive and often violent protests in the Asian financial hub. On Wednesday, 44 people were charged with rioting, the first time authorities have resorted to using the rioting charge. In one sequence in the PLA video, titled "anti-riot drill footage", ranks of troops advance with shields and truncheons on protesters, firing rifles into the air. Tear gas and water cannons rained down on protesters, as armoured personnel carriers with battering rams raced forward, and troops laid barbed wire coils on the ground. "All consequences are at your own risk," one soldier shouted in Cantonese, the main Chinese dialect in Hong Kong, during the video clip. A red flag with the words "Warning. Stop charging or we use force" was also held aloft, similar to what Hong Kong police have long used during protests. At the end of the clip, several protesters with their hands cuffed can be seen being taken away. Hong Kong has been plunged into its biggest political crisis since the former British colony's return to Chinese rule in 1997 with a wave of protests against a now suspended extradition bill which would see people sent to mainland China for trial in Communist Party-controlled courts. The protests which started in April have now transformed into broader demands including the resignation of Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam, and calls for a "free Hong Kong". As tensions continue to rise, clashes between protesters and police have become increasingly violent. Chinese authorities have strongly condemned the violence and issued reminders that Hong Kong authorities can request the assistance of the PLA Hong Kong garrison if necessary. Diplomats and foreign security analysts are watching the situation closely, but believe there's little appetite in Beijing for the PLA to be deployed on the streets of Hong Kong. The role of the PLA in Hong Kong has long been one of the most sensitive elements of the city's handover to China. "We believe that the Hong Kong garrison of the People's Liberation Army will continue to become a stabilising pillar for Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a briefing in Beijing when asked about the video. Amid growing speculation troops could be unleashed to quell the violence, police chiefs have insisted their forces are capable of maintaining order. Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule with a guarantee of its freedoms, including the right to protest and an independent judiciary not enjoyed on the mainland, for at least 50 years. Under its mini-constitution, the Basic Law, defence and foreign affairs are managed by Communist Party leaders in Beijing. Chen Daoxiang, the commander of the PLA's Hong Kong garrison said on Wednesday the violent protests in Hong Kong are "absolutely impermissible" according to the state-run China Daily newspaper. Speaking at a reception to mark the 92nd anniversary of the PLA, Chen said the protests were "putting the bottom line of the "one country, two systems" principle to the test". He added the PLA would "resolutely safeguard" the country's sovereignty and security, as well as Hong Kong's stability. In July, Reuters reported that Chen had assured a Pentagon official that Chinese troops will not interfere in the city's affairs despite the political upheaval.

Watch: China's army garrison in Hong Kong releases video with 'anti-riot' scenes

Eight Weeks & Counting, The Protests In Hong Kong Continue To Escalate Further Hong Kong protests have spilled over to train tracks. Protests flooded the platforms of several train station as normal life gets thrown out of gear. Palki sums up the latest.

Gravitas: Hong Kong tensions escalate as protesters disrupt train services

Hong Kong protest: 44 people charged with rioting for 10 years in jail. Watch video to know more.

Hong Kong protest: 44 people charged with rioting for 10 years in jail

More than 40 people appeared in a Hong Kong court on Wednesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clashes-in-hong-kong-after-police-charge-protesters-with-rioting-239553">charged with rioting for their role in a recent protest</a> that turned violent when thousands of activists clashed with police near Beijing's main representative office in the city.

A wave of protests that began in late April have plunged the former British colony into its biggest political crisis since its return to Chinese rule in 1997.

This is the first time that the authorities in the financial hub have resorted to using the rioting charge, and it could infuriate activists who have been demanding that the government avoid using the term "riot" to refer to the demonstrations.

Watch: Hong Kong protests: Activists protest demonstrators arrests

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Under Hong Kong law, rioting is defined as an unlawful assembly of three or more people where any person "commits a breach of the peace", and a conviction can carry a 10-year prison sentence.

Hundreds gathered outside the court house chanting "revolution of our time" and "liberate Hong Kong" as the 44 defendants appeared in court.

"I'm not scared to protest. This whole thing today is just making me more angry," said Gartner, a 21-year-old protester outside the court who declined to give his full name.

"I don't think it will scare people."

Nine of the defendants had been released on bail of HK$1,000 Z (US$128) by noon. They were ordered to remain in Hong Kong and a curfew was imposed between midnight and 6am.

"The Chinese government just wants to scare people not to go out and protest again. It will deter some of us," another supporter named Syrus, 19, said outside the court.

Since mid-June the protests have escalated and become more frequent, at times shutting government offices, blocking roads and disrupting business as some of the demonstrations degenerated into violent clashes between activists and police.

Hundreds of people surrounded a police station late on Tuesday chanting "free the martyrs" after the 44 activists were charged.

The protesters were arrested after a peaceful gathering on Sunday in a park in the city's central business district rapidly morphed into running battles between thousands of black-clad demonstrators and police, who fired rubber bullets and tear gas.

The protests were triggered by an extradition bill that would have allowed people to be sent to mainland for trial but they have now evolved into a broader backlash against the city's government and its political masters in Beijing.

Besides calling for the extradition bill to be scrapped, rather than its suspension so far, protesters have also demanded the resignation of city leader Carrie Lam, an independent inquiry into the police's handling of the crisis and the unconditional release of all those arrested.

China's Liaison Office, a potent symbol of Beijing's rule over the city since Hong Kong returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997, has become a target for growing ranks of increasingly emboldened youngsters, angry at China's tightening grip on the city's freedoms.

Under a "one country, two systems" formula instituted as part of China's sovereignty, the city was promised wide-ranging freedoms denied citizens in mainland China.

Many fear the central government in Beijing is chipping away at those freedoms.

Edward Leung, one of the leaders of a movement advocating Hong Kong's independence from China, was jailed in June last year for six years for rioting and assaulting police in a 2016 overnight protest that turned violent.

More than 40 people appeared in a Hong Kong court on Wednesday charged with rioting for their role in a recent protest that turned violent when thousands of activists clashed with police near Beijing's main representative office in the city.

More than 40 people appeared in a Hong Kong court on Wednesday charged with rioting for their role in a recent protest that turned violent when thousands of activists clashed with police near Beijing's main representative office in the city. A wave of protests that began in late April have plunged the former British colony into its biggest political crisis since its return to Chinese rule in 1997. This is the first time that the authorities in the financial hub have resorted to using the rioting charge, and it could infuriate activists who have been demanding that the government avoid using the term "riot" to refer to the demonstrations. Watch: Hong Kong protests: Activists protest demonstrators arrests × Under Hong Kong law, rioting is defined as an unlawful assembly of three or more people where any person "commits a breach of the peace", and a conviction can carry a 10-year prison sentence. Hundreds gathered outside the court house chanting "revolution of our time" and "liberate Hong Kong" as the 44 defendants appeared in court. "I'm not scared to protest. This whole thing today is just making me more angry," said Gartner, a 21-year-old protester outside the court who declined to give his full name. "I don't think it will scare people." Nine of the defendants had been released on bail of HK$1,000 Z (US$128) by noon. They were ordered to remain in Hong Kong and a curfew was imposed between midnight and 6am. "The Chinese government just wants to scare people not to go out and protest again. It will deter some of us," another supporter named Syrus, 19, said outside the court. Since mid-June the protests have escalated and become more frequent, at times shutting government offices, blocking roads and disrupting business as some of the demonstrations degenerated into violent clashes between activists and police. Hundreds of people surrounded a police station late on Tuesday chanting "free the martyrs" after the 44 activists were charged. The protesters were arrested after a peaceful gathering on Sunday in a park in the city's central business district rapidly morphed into running battles between thousands of black-clad demonstrators and police, who fired rubber bullets and tear gas. The protests were triggered by an extradition bill that would have allowed people to be sent to mainland for trial but they have now evolved into a broader backlash against the city's government and its political masters in Beijing. Besides calling for the extradition bill to be scrapped, rather than its suspension so far, protesters have also demanded the resignation of city leader Carrie Lam, an independent inquiry into the police's handling of the crisis and the unconditional release of all those arrested. China's Liaison Office, a potent symbol of Beijing's rule over the city since Hong Kong returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997, has become a target for growing ranks of increasingly emboldened youngsters, angry at China's tightening grip on the city's freedoms. Under a "one country, two systems" formula instituted as part of China's sovereignty, the city was promised wide-ranging freedoms denied citizens in mainland China. Many fear the central government in Beijing is chipping away at those freedoms. Edward Leung, one of the leaders of a movement advocating Hong Kong's independence from China, was jailed in June last year for six years for rioting and assaulting police in a 2016 overnight protest that turned violent.

Hong Kong protesters appear in court to face 'riot' charge

As The Protests In Hong Kong Continue For The Third Month, Here's A Look At How The Protests Is Likely To Impact Xi Jinping. The Hong Kong Protests could be the Waterloo for Xi Jinping. Is this the biggest challenge in his political career? Will Hong Kong protests turn out to be the worst Xi Jinping has faced in his career? Here's a report

Gravitas: Is Hong Kong Xi Jinping's biggest political challenge yet?

Protests In Hong Kong Intensify It has been over 7 weeks. But the protests in Hong Kong is showing no signs of coming to an end. In fact, the agitation is becoming bigger and more violent. China has thrown its weight behind Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam. Palki summarises

Gravitas: Violence escalates in Hong Kong

There is no stopping for the Hong Kong protests. Hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets in a series of demonstrations against a controversial extradition bill over the last few weeks. But what are the economic impacts of the protest.

Economic impact of Hong Kong protests

The Unique Nature Of The Protests In Hong Kong No leadership, but remarkably well organised protests. Palki tells us about the unique nature of the protests in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong: The playbook of the protesters

Hong Kong stocks fell at the open Monday after investor caution ahead of US-China trade talks and more<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protest-turns-violent-chinas-top-policy-unit-to-hold-press-conference-on-monday-239094"> civil unrest in the financial hub</a>.

The Hang Seng Index fell 0.45 per cent, or 128.83 points, to 28.268.91.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index opened flat, edging 0.62 points lower to 2,943.92.

The Shenzhen Composite Index, which tracks stocks on China's second exchange, however, was also flat at the open, rising 0.46 points to 1,573.91.

Hong Kong stocks fell at the open Monday after investor caution ahead of US-China trade talks and more civil unrest in the financial hub. The Hang Seng Index fell 0.

Hong Kong stocks fell at the open Monday after investor caution ahead of US-China trade talks and more civil unrest in the financial hub. The Hang Seng Index fell 0.45 per cent, or 128.83 points, to 28.268.91. The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index opened flat, edging 0.62 points lower to 2,943.92. The Shenzhen Composite Index, which tracks stocks on China's second exchange, however, was also flat at the open, rising 0.46 points to 1,573.91.

Hong Kong stocks fall amid US-China trade tensions, protests in city

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-casualties-in-california-shooting-shooter-still-active-say-police-239114">Multiple casualties in California shooting, 'shooter still active', say police</a>

An "active shooter" was reported at a food festival in Gilroy, California on Sunday, police said, adding that were casualties.

Police said multiple casualties were reported in the shooting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protest-turns-violent-chinas-top-policy-unit-to-hold-press-conference-on-monday-239094">Some radical protesters acted violently: Hong Kong police</a>

Riot police in Hong Kong launched volleys of tear gas and rubber bullets on Sunday during hours of running battles with pro-democracy protesters close to Beijing's office in the city, marking the second consecutive day officers have fired on demonstrators.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intelligence-chief-dan-coats-resigns-from-trump-administration-239088">US intelligence chief Dan Coats to resign from Trump administration</a>

US intelligence chief Dan Coats will leave office on August 15, President Donald Trump announced on Sunday, the latest high-profile departure from his turnover-plagued administration.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/millions-of-tonnes-of-us-soy-shipped-to-china-state-media-on-trade-consensus-239095">Millions of tonnes of US soy shipped to China: State media on trade consensus</a>

The United States has shipped several million tonnes of soybeans to China since the two countries' leaders met in June, Chinese state media said on Sunday, an apparent sign of goodwill before trade talks in Shanghai this week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspected-boko-haram-islamists-kill-at-least-30-in-northeast-nigeria-source-239096">Death toll in Nigeria Boko Haram funeral attack rises to 65</a>

An attack this weekend by Boko Haram fighters on a funeral in northeast Nigeria has left 65 people dead, almost triple the initial toll, a local official said Sunday.

Dozens more bodies were discovered following the assault Saturday by gunmen on a village close to the regional capital Maiduguri.

Multiple casualties in California shooting, 'shooter still active', say police An "active shooter" was reported at a food festival in Gilroy, California on Sunday, police said, adding that were casualties.

Multiple casualties in California shooting, 'shooter still active', say police An "active shooter" was reported at a food festival in Gilroy, California on Sunday, police said, adding that were casualties. Police said multiple casualties were reported in the shooting. Some radical protesters acted violently: Hong Kong police Riot police in Hong Kong launched volleys of tear gas and rubber bullets on Sunday during hours of running battles with pro-democracy protesters close to Beijing's office in the city, marking the second consecutive day officers have fired on demonstrators. US intelligence chief Dan Coats to resign from Trump administration US intelligence chief Dan Coats will leave office on August 15, President Donald Trump announced on Sunday, the latest high-profile departure from his turnover-plagued administration. Millions of tonnes of US soy shipped to China: State media on trade consensus The United States has shipped several million tonnes of soybeans to China since the two countries' leaders met in June, Chinese state media said on Sunday, an apparent sign of goodwill before trade talks in Shanghai this week. Death toll in Nigeria Boko Haram funeral attack rises to 65 An attack this weekend by Boko Haram fighters on a funeral in northeast Nigeria has left 65 people dead, almost triple the initial toll, a local official said Sunday. Dozens more bodies were discovered following the assault Saturday by gunmen on a village close to the regional capital Maiduguri.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Hong Kong protest pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong speaks to WION. Watch video to know more.

Hong Kong protest: Pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong speaks to WION

Defiant pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong were readying for another big rally later Sunday, a day after police fired rubber bullets and tear gas in the latest violent confrontation that has plunged the financial hub deeper into crisis.

A town near the border with China descended into chaos on Saturday as police battled protesters holding a banned rally against suspected pro-government triad gangs who beat up democracy demonstrators there last weekend.

Riot police used tear gas throughout the afternoon and evening in Yuen Long after tense standoffs with protesters, some of whom were throwing projectiles and had surrounded a police van.

Rubber bullets were fired later in the clashes which ended when riot police baton-charged the last remaining demonstrators inside the town's metro station, leaving pools of blood in the same concourse where the suspected triads had attacked the previous weekend.

Police said 11 arrests were made. Hospital authorities said 24 people were injured, most of whom have been discharged but two remained in serious condition.

Saturday's violence compounds the political crisis engulfing the city's pro-Beijing leadership who are seemingly unable, or unwilling, to end the chaos. 
A rally is planned on the main island on Sunday afternoon.

Police have given permission for a static protest in a park but have banned a proposed march through the city, ratcheting up the likelihood of renewed clashes.

Weeks of chaos&nbsp;

Semi-autonomous Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history after millions of demonstrators took to the streets and sporadic violent confrontations erupted between police and pockets of hardcore protesters.

The demonstrations over the last seven weeks were triggered by a controversial bill which would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms.

Yet the weeks of unprecedented protests with huge turnouts -- as well as frequent clashes and the sacking of parliament -- have had little luck persuading Beijing or Hong Kong's leaders.&nbsp;

Beijing has issued increasingly shrill condemnations in the last two weeks, but has left it to the city's semi-autonomous government to deal with the situation.

City leader Carrie Lam has shown no sign of backing down beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill.

Her administration has faced down weeks of public anger.&nbsp;

But the tensions ratcheted up after last week's attack by a pro-government mob in Yuen Long.

The town is in Hong Kong's rural New Territories where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment.

Defiant pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong were readying for another big rally later Sunday, a day after police fired rubber bullets and tear gas in the latest violent confrontation that has plunged the financial hub deeper into crisis.

Defiant pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong were readying for another big rally later Sunday, a day after police fired rubber bullets and tear gas in the latest violent confrontation that has plunged the financial hub deeper into crisis. A town near the border with China descended into chaos on Saturday as police battled protesters holding a banned rally against suspected pro-government triad gangs who beat up democracy demonstrators there last weekend. Riot police used tear gas throughout the afternoon and evening in Yuen Long after tense standoffs with protesters, some of whom were throwing projectiles and had surrounded a police van. Rubber bullets were fired later in the clashes which ended when riot police baton-charged the last remaining demonstrators inside the town's metro station, leaving pools of blood in the same concourse where the suspected triads had attacked the previous weekend. Police said 11 arrests were made. Hospital authorities said 24 people were injured, most of whom have been discharged but two remained in serious condition. Saturday's violence compounds the political crisis engulfing the city's pro-Beijing leadership who are seemingly unable, or unwilling, to end the chaos. A rally is planned on the main island on Sunday afternoon. Police have given permission for a static protest in a park but have banned a proposed march through the city, ratcheting up the likelihood of renewed clashes. Weeks of chaos Semi-autonomous Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history after millions of demonstrators took to the streets and sporadic violent confrontations erupted between police and pockets of hardcore protesters. The demonstrations over the last seven weeks were triggered by a controversial bill which would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms. Yet the weeks of unprecedented protests with huge turnouts -- as well as frequent clashes and the sacking of parliament -- have had little luck persuading Beijing or Hong Kong's leaders. Beijing has issued increasingly shrill condemnations in the last two weeks, but has left it to the city's semi-autonomous government to deal with the situation. City leader Carrie Lam has shown no sign of backing down beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill. Her administration has faced down weeks of public anger. But the tensions ratcheted up after last week's attack by a pro-government mob in Yuen Long. The town is in Hong Kong's rural New Territories where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment.

Hong Kong braces for new rally after fresh riot police clashes

Riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets Sunday evening to disperse <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-unrest-protesters-defy-police-again-begin-banned-march-238981">pro-democracy protesters close to Beijing's office in Hong Kong</a>, plunging the financial hub deeper into crisis.

The clashes are the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-braces-for-new-rally-after-fresh-riot-police-clashes-238942">second consecutive day of violence</a> in a city reeling from weeks of anti-government protests that show no sign of abating.

Sunday's melees took place in a well-heeled residential district close to the Liaison Office, which represents Beijing in the semi-autonomous hub and which was pelted with eggs and paint last week.

Police and protesters had been engaged in a tense standoff for hours after tens of thousands of demonstrators held a series of unsanctioned marches through the city.

A group of some 200 protesters had made their way towards the Liaison Office in Sheung Wan district where they met a phalanx of riot police who used loudhailers calling for the crowds to end their "illegal assembly".

Eventually, tear gas and rubber bullets were fired at demonstrators who responded with volleys of bricks and stones as baton-wielding riot police charged and pushed the crowds back down the street.

AFP reporters saw officers from the police's elite "Raptor" squads making multiple arrests. Two journalists were seen receiving medical treatment after being injured, while at least one protester was seen with blood streaming down his face.

A second, larger crowd massed in the popular shopping district of Causeway Bay, where they built barricades and took over the main thoroughfare but there appeared to be little police presence there.

The renewed violence comes a day after a town near the border with mainland China descended into chaos as police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at protesters holding another banned rally against suspected pro-government triad gangs who beat up democracy demonstrators there last weekend.

Weeks of chaos

Despite facing unprecedented levels of public anger and frustration, the city's pro-Beijing leadership are seemingly unable, or unwilling, to end the chaos.

Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history after millions of demonstrators took to the streets and sporadic violent confrontations erupted between police and pockets of hardcore protesters.

The demonstrations over the last seven weeks were triggered by a controversial bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms.

Yet the unprecedented protests with huge turnouts -- as well as frequent clashes and the sacking of parliament -- have had little luck persuading Beijing or Hong Kong's leaders.&nbsp;

Beijing has issued increasingly shrill condemnations in the last two weeks but has left it to the city's government to deal with the situation.&nbsp;

The Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office in Beijing said it would hold a press conference on Monday afternoon.

City leader Carrie Lam has shown no sign of backing down beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill.

Pro-democracy lawmaker Claudia Mo said the city was now trapped in a "vicious cycle" where huge peaceful marches that have been ignored by the government end with violence between police and small groups of hardcore protesters.&nbsp;

"You see force being escalated on both sides but then this is a huge imbalance because the police are in possession of deadly weapons. This sums up Hong Kong today," she told AFP.&nbsp;

Battle for Yuen Long

Clashes have been raging for weeks. But public anger intensified to new levels a week ago when a pro-government mob of men wearing white shirts and armed with sticks attacked protesters in Yuen Long.

The town is in Hong Kong's rural New Territories where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment.

That brazen assault resulted in at least 45 people being taken to hospital. Police were heavily criticised for being too slow to respond to the violence, fuelling accusations of collusion or turning a blind eye to the pro-government mob -- allegations the force has denied.

In a rare move, police banned Saturday's rally saying they feared reprisal attacks against villagers from protesters, a decision that only heightened anger towards a force already perceived to be protecting pro-government aggressors.

They also banned a proposed march on Sunday. But on both days protesters simply ignored the orders.&nbsp;

On Saturday small groups of more hardcore protesters, many in helmets and carrying shields confronted police outside the villages and accused them of protecting triads.

Tensions quickly rose with projectiles thrown followed by a now-familiar pattern of running battles between police and protesters.&nbsp;

Police made 13 arrests while hospital authorities said 24 people were injured, two seriously. 
&nbsp;

Riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets Sunday evening to disperse pro-democracy protesters close to Beijing's office in Hong Kong, plunging the financial hub deeper into crisis.

Riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets Sunday evening to disperse pro-democracy protesters close to Beijing's office in Hong Kong, plunging the financial hub deeper into crisis. The clashes are the second consecutive day of violence in a city reeling from weeks of anti-government protests that show no sign of abating. Sunday's melees took place in a well-heeled residential district close to the Liaison Office, which represents Beijing in the semi-autonomous hub and which was pelted with eggs and paint last week. Police and protesters had been engaged in a tense standoff for hours after tens of thousands of demonstrators held a series of unsanctioned marches through the city. A group of some 200 protesters had made their way towards the Liaison Office in Sheung Wan district where they met a phalanx of riot police who used loudhailers calling for the crowds to end their "illegal assembly". Eventually, tear gas and rubber bullets were fired at demonstrators who responded with volleys of bricks and stones as baton-wielding riot police charged and pushed the crowds back down the street. AFP reporters saw officers from the police's elite "Raptor" squads making multiple arrests. Two journalists were seen receiving medical treatment after being injured, while at least one protester was seen with blood streaming down his face. A second, larger crowd massed in the popular shopping district of Causeway Bay, where they built barricades and took over the main thoroughfare but there appeared to be little police presence there. The renewed violence comes a day after a town near the border with mainland China descended into chaos as police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at protesters holding another banned rally against suspected pro-government triad gangs who beat up democracy demonstrators there last weekend. Weeks of chaos Despite facing unprecedented levels of public anger and frustration, the city's pro-Beijing leadership are seemingly unable, or unwilling, to end the chaos. Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history after millions of demonstrators took to the streets and sporadic violent confrontations erupted between police and pockets of hardcore protesters. The demonstrations over the last seven weeks were triggered by a controversial bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms. Yet the unprecedented protests with huge turnouts -- as well as frequent clashes and the sacking of parliament -- have had little luck persuading Beijing or Hong Kong's leaders. Beijing has issued increasingly shrill condemnations in the last two weeks but has left it to the city's government to deal with the situation. The Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office in Beijing said it would hold a press conference on Monday afternoon. City leader Carrie Lam has shown no sign of backing down beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill. Pro-democracy lawmaker Claudia Mo said the city was now trapped in a "vicious cycle" where huge peaceful marches that have been ignored by the government end with violence between police and small groups of hardcore protesters. "You see force being escalated on both sides but then this is a huge imbalance because the police are in possession of deadly weapons. This sums up Hong Kong today," she told AFP. Battle for Yuen Long Clashes have been raging for weeks. But public anger intensified to new levels a week ago when a pro-government mob of men wearing white shirts and armed with sticks attacked protesters in Yuen Long. The town is in Hong Kong's rural New Territories where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment. That brazen assault resulted in at least 45 people being taken to hospital. Police were heavily criticised for being too slow to respond to the violence, fuelling accusations of collusion or turning a blind eye to the pro-government mob -- allegations the force has denied. In a rare move, police banned Saturday's rally saying they feared reprisal attacks against villagers from protesters, a decision that only heightened anger towards a force already perceived to be protecting pro-government aggressors. They also banned a proposed march on Sunday. But on both days protesters simply ignored the orders. On Saturday small groups of more hardcore protesters, many in helmets and carrying shields confronted police outside the villages and accused them of protecting triads. Tensions quickly rose with projectiles thrown followed by a now-familiar pattern of running battles between police and protesters. Police made 13 arrests while hospital authorities said 24 people were injured, two seriously.

Tear gas, rubber bullets fired at Hong Kong protesters near Beijing's office

The protesters wore black and held umbrellas, chanting anti-police slogans while marching through the territory's business district.

Protests in Hong Kong enter 8th week

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-at-anti-triad-rally-report-238816">Hong Kong police fired tear gas and rubber bullets</a> Saturday at protesters holding a banned rally against suspected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongers-defy-police-ban-with-mass-anti-triad-rally-238808">triad gangs</a> who beat up pro-democracy demonstrators near the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-is-chinas-hong-kong-will-never-allow-any-foreign-forces-to-intervene-foreign-ministry-238638">Chinese border</a> last weekend, tipping the finance hub further into chaos.

Riot police used tear gas throughout the afternoon and evening in Yuen Long, a town close to the border, after tense standoffs with protesters, some of whom were throwing projectiles and had surrounded a police van.

Hospital authorities said nine people were injured, with five in a serious condition.

Rubber bullets were fired later in the evening to disperse remaining protesters. Battles then broke out in the town's station as officers with batons and shields swooped on demonstrators there and made multiple arrests, leaving pools of blood on the floor.

Public anger has been raging since last Sunday when a gang of men in white T-shirts, armed with poles and batons, set upon anti-government protesters and bystanders in the same station in Yuen Long.

That brazen assault -- which hospitalised at least 45 people -- was an escalation of seven weeks of unprecedented political violence that shows little sign of abating as the city's pro-Beijing leaders refuse to budge.

Police have been heavily criticised for being too slow to respond to Sunday's violence, fueling accusations of collusion or turning a blind eye to the pro-government mob -- allegations the force has denied.

- Triad links -

Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history after millions of demonstrators took to the streets and sporadic violent confrontations erupted between police and pockets of hardcore protesters.

The demonstrations were triggered by a controversial bill which would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms.

Saturday's violence compounds the political crisis with the city's leadership seemingly unable, or unwilling, to end the chaos.&nbsp;

Yuen Long is in Hong Kong's New Territories, a rural area where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment.&nbsp;

Police say they have arrested 12 people so far in connection with Sunday's violence, nine of whom have known triad links.

The white shirt mob ran into two villages near Yuen Long station after their attack and later left without police making any arrests despite a large presence of officers.

These two villages became the focus of protester anger on Saturday.

The rally began peacefully. But small groups of more hardcore protesters, many in helmets and carrying shields, confronted police outside the villages and accused them of protecting triads.

Tensions quickly rose with projectiles hurled. Soon tear gas rounds were arcing through the air and a now-familiar pattern of running battles between police and protesters began.&nbsp;

On one road, a parked Lexus that was found to have wooden sticks and clubs similar to those used in Sunday's attacks inside it -- as well as a Samurai-style sword -- had been trashed.

By late evening only some 200 protesters remained around the main station who were then charged by riot police.

- Pokemon Go and shopping sprees - 
In a rare move, police banned Saturday's rally saying they feared reprisal attacks against villagers from protesters, a decision that only heightened anger towards a force already perceived to be protecting pro-government aggressors.

Social messaging channels used to organise the largely leaderless movement filled with calls for people to go on a "shopping spree" in Yuen Long or play the popular mobile game Pokemon Go there.

One female protester surnamed Cheung said she wanted to show "we are not afraid and that Hong Kongers won't cower in fear".

"The police and (the government) are together suppressing people's freedom to express their views," she added.

- Few concessions -

Weeks of unprecedented protests with huge turnouts -- as well as frequent clashes and the sacking of parliament -- have had little luck persuading Beijing or Hong Kong's leaders.&nbsp;

Beijing has issued increasingly shrill condemnations in the last fortnight, but has left it to the city's semi-autonomous government to deal with the situation.

City leader Carrie Lam has shown no sign of backing down beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill.

On Friday thousands held a 10-hour protest at the airport arrival hall in a bid to "educate" visitors about their movement -- especially those on the Chinese mainland where news is heavily censored.

The protest was peaceful and there was no disruption to flights.

Protesters also plan to march on Sunday through a district where riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at projectile-hurling protesters the week before.

Hong Kong police fired tear gas and rubber bullets Saturday at protesters holding a banned rally against suspected triad gangs who beat up pro-democracy demonstrators near the Chinese border last weekend, tipping the finance hub further into chaos.

Hong Kong police fired tear gas and rubber bullets Saturday at protesters holding a banned rally against suspected triad gangs who beat up pro-democracy demonstrators near the Chinese border last weekend, tipping the finance hub further into chaos. Riot police used tear gas throughout the afternoon and evening in Yuen Long, a town close to the border, after tense standoffs with protesters, some of whom were throwing projectiles and had surrounded a police van. Hospital authorities said nine people were injured, with five in a serious condition. Rubber bullets were fired later in the evening to disperse remaining protesters. Battles then broke out in the town's station as officers with batons and shields swooped on demonstrators there and made multiple arrests, leaving pools of blood on the floor. Public anger has been raging since last Sunday when a gang of men in white T-shirts, armed with poles and batons, set upon anti-government protesters and bystanders in the same station in Yuen Long. That brazen assault -- which hospitalised at least 45 people -- was an escalation of seven weeks of unprecedented political violence that shows little sign of abating as the city's pro-Beijing leaders refuse to budge. Police have been heavily criticised for being too slow to respond to Sunday's violence, fueling accusations of collusion or turning a blind eye to the pro-government mob -- allegations the force has denied. - Triad links - Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history after millions of demonstrators took to the streets and sporadic violent confrontations erupted between police and pockets of hardcore protesters. The demonstrations were triggered by a controversial bill which would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms. Saturday's violence compounds the political crisis with the city's leadership seemingly unable, or unwilling, to end the chaos. Yuen Long is in Hong Kong's New Territories, a rural area where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment. Police say they have arrested 12 people so far in connection with Sunday's violence, nine of whom have known triad links. The white shirt mob ran into two villages near Yuen Long station after their attack and later left without police making any arrests despite a large presence of officers. These two villages became the focus of protester anger on Saturday. The rally began peacefully. But small groups of more hardcore protesters, many in helmets and carrying shields, confronted police outside the villages and accused them of protecting triads. Tensions quickly rose with projectiles hurled. Soon tear gas rounds were arcing through the air and a now-familiar pattern of running battles between police and protesters began. On one road, a parked Lexus that was found to have wooden sticks and clubs similar to those used in Sunday's attacks inside it -- as well as a Samurai-style sword -- had been trashed. By late evening only some 200 protesters remained around the main station who were then charged by riot police. - Pokemon Go and shopping sprees - In a rare move, police banned Saturday's rally saying they feared reprisal attacks against villagers from protesters, a decision that only heightened anger towards a force already perceived to be protecting pro-government aggressors. Social messaging channels used to organise the largely leaderless movement filled with calls for people to go on a "shopping spree" in Yuen Long or play the popular mobile game Pokemon Go there. One female protester surnamed Cheung said she wanted to show "we are not afraid and that Hong Kongers won't cower in fear". "The police and (the government) are together suppressing people's freedom to express their views," she added. - Few concessions - Weeks of unprecedented protests with huge turnouts -- as well as frequent clashes and the sacking of parliament -- have had little luck persuading Beijing or Hong Kong's leaders. Beijing has issued increasingly shrill condemnations in the last fortnight, but has left it to the city's semi-autonomous government to deal with the situation. City leader Carrie Lam has shown no sign of backing down beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill. On Friday thousands held a 10-hour protest at the airport arrival hall in a bid to "educate" visitors about their movement -- especially those on the Chinese mainland where news is heavily censored. The protest was peaceful and there was no disruption to flights. Protesters also plan to march on Sunday through a district where riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at projectile-hurling protesters the week before.

Police fire tear gas, rubber bullets at Hong Kongers protesting 'triad' attack

Hong Kong police fired tear gas Saturday at protesters holding a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongers-defy-police-ban-with-mass-anti-triad-rally-238808">banned rally against suspected triad gangs</a> who beat up pro-democracy demonstrators near the Chinese border last weekend, tipping the finance hub further into chaos.

Riot police fired multiple rounds of tear gas in Yuen Long after tense standoffs with protesters, some of whom were throwing projectiles and had surrounded a police van.

Public anger has been raging since last Sunday when a gang of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protest-anger-soars-as-45-people-gets-injured-in-yuen-long-train-station-mob-attack-237553">men in white t-shirts, armed with poles and batons</a>, set upon anti-government protesters and bystanders in Yuen Long station, leaving at least 45 people needing hospital treatment.

The brazen assault was the latest escalation in seven weeks of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protest-anger-soars-as-45-people-gets-injured-in-yuen-long-train-station-mob-attack-237553">unprecedented political violence</a> that shows little sign of abating as the city's pro-Beijing leaders refuse to budge.

Police have been heavily criticised for being too slow to respond to Sunday's violence, fueling accusations of collusion or turning a blind eye to the pro-government mob -- allegations the force has denied.&nbsp;

Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history after millions of demonstrators took to the streets -- and sporadic violent confrontations erupted between police and pockets of hardcore protesters.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-is-chinas-hong-kong-will-never-allow-any-foreign-forces-to-intervene-foreign-ministry-238638">demonstrations were triggered by a controversial bill</a> which would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms. &nbsp;

Saturday's violence compounds the political crisis with the city's pro-Beijing leadership seemingly unable, or unwilling, to end the chaos.&nbsp;

Watch: Hong Kong protest enters eighth week

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Pokemon and shopping sprees

In a rare move, police banned Saturday's rally saying they feared reprisal attacks against villagers from protesters, a decision that only heightened public anger towards a force perceived to be protecting pro-government aggressors.&nbsp;

Social messaging channels used to organise the largely leaderless movement quickly filled up with vows from people to join in.&nbsp;

Some suggested holding a "shopping spree" in Yuen Long, others for a mass gathering of Pokemon Go, a popular mobile phone game.&nbsp;

Huge crowds spilled out of Yuen Long's main station on Saturday afternoon and into surrounding streets where police maintained a large presence but kept their distance. Many shops were shuttered.

"Everyone of us came here on our own initiation," a 25-year-old medical worker surnamed Ng, told AFP. "So I don't think this is an illegal assembly, I've just come here as an individual to tell people my thoughts."

Another woman surnamed Cheung, said she wanted to show "we are not afraid and that Hong Kongers won't cower in fear".

"The police and (the government) are together suppressing people's freedom to express their views," she added.

Triad links&nbsp;

Yuen Long is in Hong Kong's New Territories, a rural area where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment.&nbsp;

Police say they have arrested 12 people so far in connection with Sunday's violence, nine of whom have known triad links.

The white shirt mob ran into two villages near Yuen Long station after their attack and later left without police making any arrests despite a large presence of officers.

These two villages became the focus of protester anger on Saturday.&nbsp;

The rally began peacefully. But small groups of more hardcore protesters, many wearing helmets and shields, confronted police outside the villages and accused them of protecting triads.

Tensions soon escalated with projectiles hurled and a police van containing officers was also surrounded and daubed in graffiti.

Soon tear gas rounds were arcing through the air and a now-familiar pattern of running battles between police and protesters began.&nbsp;

Few concessions

Weeks of unprecedented protests with huge turnouts -- as well as frequent clashes and the sacking of parliament -- have had little luck persuading Beijing or Hong Kong's leaders.&nbsp;

Beijing has issued increasingly shrill condemnations in the last fortnight but has left it to the city's semi-autonomous government to deal with the situation.

City leader Carrie Lam has shown no sign of backing down beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill.&nbsp;

On Friday thousands held a 10-hour protest at the airport arrival hall in a bid to "educate" visitors about their movement -- especially those on the Chinese mainland where news is heavily censored.&nbsp;

The protest was peaceful and there was no disruption to flights. &nbsp;

Protesters also plan to march on Sunday through a district where riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at projectile-hurling protesters the week before.&nbsp;

Police have allowed a rally to take place, but denied protesters permission to march, raising the likelihood of further confrontations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong police fired tear gas Saturday at protesters holding a banned rally against suspected triad gangs who beat up pro-democracy demonstrators near the Chinese border last weekend, tipping the finance hub further into chaos.

Hong Kong police fired tear gas Saturday at protesters holding a banned rally against suspected triad gangs who beat up pro-democracy demonstrators near the Chinese border last weekend, tipping the finance hub further into chaos. Riot police fired multiple rounds of tear gas in Yuen Long after tense standoffs with protesters, some of whom were throwing projectiles and had surrounded a police van. Public anger has been raging since last Sunday when a gang of men in white t-shirts, armed with poles and batons, set upon anti-government protesters and bystanders in Yuen Long station, leaving at least 45 people needing hospital treatment. The brazen assault was the latest escalation in seven weeks of unprecedented political violence that shows little sign of abating as the city's pro-Beijing leaders refuse to budge. Police have been heavily criticised for being too slow to respond to Sunday's violence, fueling accusations of collusion or turning a blind eye to the pro-government mob -- allegations the force has denied. Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history after millions of demonstrators took to the streets -- and sporadic violent confrontations erupted between police and pockets of hardcore protesters. The demonstrations were triggered by a controversial bill which would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms. Saturday's violence compounds the political crisis with the city's pro-Beijing leadership seemingly unable, or unwilling, to end the chaos. Watch: Hong Kong protest enters eighth week × Pokemon and shopping sprees In a rare move, police banned Saturday's rally saying they feared reprisal attacks against villagers from protesters, a decision that only heightened public anger towards a force perceived to be protecting pro-government aggressors. Social messaging channels used to organise the largely leaderless movement quickly filled up with vows from people to join in. Some suggested holding a "shopping spree" in Yuen Long, others for a mass gathering of Pokemon Go, a popular mobile phone game. Huge crowds spilled out of Yuen Long's main station on Saturday afternoon and into surrounding streets where police maintained a large presence but kept their distance. Many shops were shuttered. "Everyone of us came here on our own initiation," a 25-year-old medical worker surnamed Ng, told AFP. "So I don't think this is an illegal assembly, I've just come here as an individual to tell people my thoughts." Another woman surnamed Cheung, said she wanted to show "we are not afraid and that Hong Kongers won't cower in fear". "The police and (the government) are together suppressing people's freedom to express their views," she added. Triad links Yuen Long is in Hong Kong's New Territories, a rural area where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment. Police say they have arrested 12 people so far in connection with Sunday's violence, nine of whom have known triad links. The white shirt mob ran into two villages near Yuen Long station after their attack and later left without police making any arrests despite a large presence of officers. These two villages became the focus of protester anger on Saturday. The rally began peacefully. But small groups of more hardcore protesters, many wearing helmets and shields, confronted police outside the villages and accused them of protecting triads. Tensions soon escalated with projectiles hurled and a police van containing officers was also surrounded and daubed in graffiti. Soon tear gas rounds were arcing through the air and a now-familiar pattern of running battles between police and protesters began. Few concessions Weeks of unprecedented protests with huge turnouts -- as well as frequent clashes and the sacking of parliament -- have had little luck persuading Beijing or Hong Kong's leaders. Beijing has issued increasingly shrill condemnations in the last fortnight but has left it to the city's semi-autonomous government to deal with the situation. City leader Carrie Lam has shown no sign of backing down beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill. On Friday thousands held a 10-hour protest at the airport arrival hall in a bid to "educate" visitors about their movement -- especially those on the Chinese mainland where news is heavily censored. The protest was peaceful and there was no disruption to flights. Protesters also plan to march on Sunday through a district where riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at projectile-hurling protesters the week before. Police have allowed a rally to take place, but denied protesters permission to march, raising the likelihood of further confrontations.

Hong Kong unrest: Police fire tear gas at protesters defying ban on 'anti-triad' rally

How China's PLA maintains internal equilibrium to control external threat

US President Donald Trump on Monday praised Beijing's handling of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, a day after suspected triad gangsters attacked demonstrators in a bloody escalation.

Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history by weeks of marches, which drew millions, and sporadic violent confrontations between police and pockets of hardcore protesters.

The demonstrations have evolved into a call for democratic reforms, universal suffrage and a halt to sliding freedoms which China had promised to respect in the semi-autonomous territory after its handover from Britain in 1997.

"I know that's a very important situation for President Xi" Jinping of China, Trump said during a White House meeting with Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan.

When a reporter suggested that the Hong Kong and Chinese governments were ignoring violence against the protesters, Trump replied that "I think it's been relatively nonviolent."

Hospital authorities said 45 people were wounded in the attack late Sunday which led to the arrest of six men, some of whom police alleged had triad gangster backgrounds.

"China could stop them if they wanted", Trump said of the protests.&nbsp;

"I'm not involved in it very much but I think President Xi of China has acted responsibly, very responsibly," said Trump, who last year began a trade war with China that has led to tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars in mutual trade, a dispute still unsettled.

After Sunday's violence critics accused Hong Kong police of responding too slowly.

"They've been out there protesting for a long time. I've never seen protests like it where you have that many people. It looks like two million people," Trump said.

"Those are big protests... I hope that President Xi will do the right thing, but it has been going on a long time, there's no question."

Hardcore protesters have stormed Hong Kong's legislature, and on Sunday some demonstrators targeted with eggs and graffiti China's representative office in the financial hub, which China's foreign ministry called "absolutely intolerable."

US President Donald Trump on Monday praised Beijing's handling of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, a day after suspected triad gangsters attacked demonstrators in a bloody escalation.

US President Donald Trump on Monday praised Beijing's handling of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, a day after suspected triad gangsters attacked demonstrators in a bloody escalation. Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history by weeks of marches, which drew millions, and sporadic violent confrontations between police and pockets of hardcore protesters. The demonstrations have evolved into a call for democratic reforms, universal suffrage and a halt to sliding freedoms which China had promised to respect in the semi-autonomous territory after its handover from Britain in 1997. "I know that's a very important situation for President Xi" Jinping of China, Trump said during a White House meeting with Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan. When a reporter suggested that the Hong Kong and Chinese governments were ignoring violence against the protesters, Trump replied that "I think it's been relatively nonviolent." Hospital authorities said 45 people were wounded in the attack late Sunday which led to the arrest of six men, some of whom police alleged had triad gangster backgrounds. "China could stop them if they wanted", Trump said of the protests. "I'm not involved in it very much but I think President Xi of China has acted responsibly, very responsibly," said Trump, who last year began a trade war with China that has led to tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars in mutual trade, a dispute still unsettled. After Sunday's violence critics accused Hong Kong police of responding too slowly. "They've been out there protesting for a long time. I've never seen protests like it where you have that many people. It looks like two million people," Trump said. "Those are big protests... I hope that President Xi will do the right thing, but it has been going on a long time, there's no question." Hardcore protesters have stormed Hong Kong's legislature, and on Sunday some demonstrators targeted with eggs and graffiti China's representative office in the financial hub, which China's foreign ministry called "absolutely intolerable."

Donald Trump praises China response to Hong Kong protests

Is China Using Iron-Fisted Tactics To Get An Upper Hand In Hong Kong? The rise in violence and state authoritarianism in Hong Kong has led to many conspiracy theories. Chief among them is the question of whether China is working behind the scenes. China has already called the protests an open challenge to authority. So is there credence to this conspiracy theory? This report explores the question.

Gravitas: Hong Kong: Is china working behind the scenes?

Hong Kong Protests Enter The Seventh Week As Situation Spirals Out Of Control For two months now, Hong Kong has been on the boil, simmering with tensions over the extradition bill. Last night, the situation spiralled out of control with protesters reaching China's representative office in Hong Kong. The police responded by firing rubber pellets and tear gas as chaos grips the streets of Hong Kong. Palki explains the development.

Gravitas: Hong Kong: Anti-government protests intensify

A major anti-government march in Hong Kong turned violent and created chaos late on Sunday, as police fired teargas on protesters and unidentified masked men attacked commuters returning from the demonstration. Watch full video to know more.

Hong Kong police use tear gas and rubber bullets as protests turn violent

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-returns-to-chaos-armed-mob-storms-train-station-multiple-people-beaten-including-reporters-237523">Hong Kong returns to chaos; armed mob storms train station, multiple people beaten including journalists</a>

Hong Kong descended into chaos Sunday night as riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at anti-government protesters hours after China's office in the city was daubed with eggs and graffiti in a vivid rebuke to Beijing's rule.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-theresa-may-to-hold-emergency-meeting-on-seized-tanker-237525">British PM Theresa May to hold emergency meeting on seized tanker</a>

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-chandrayaan-2-indias-second-lunar-exploration-mission-237527">Live: Chandrayaan 2 will not face any more glitches, says ISRO chairman K Sivan</a>

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief K Sivan said that the Chandrayaan-2 will perform 15 crucial manoeuvres in the days to come. Sivan said that all the preparatory works regarding the launch have been completed and technical snags that developed in the first attempt have been rectified.ISRO is keeping update on the launch.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Hong Kong returns to chaos; armed mob storms train station, multiple people beaten including journalists Hong Kong descended into chaos Sunday night as riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at anti-government protesters hours after China's office in the city was daubed with eggs and graffiti in a vivid rebuke to Beijing's rule.

Hong Kong returns to chaos; armed mob storms train station, multiple people beaten including journalists Hong Kong descended into chaos Sunday night as riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at anti-government protesters hours after China's office in the city was daubed with eggs and graffiti in a vivid rebuke to Beijing's rule. British PM Theresa May to hold emergency meeting on seized tanker Prime Minister Theresa May will hold a meeting of Britain's emergencies committee on Monday to discuss Iran's seizure of a UK-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf. Live: Chandrayaan 2 will not face any more glitches, says ISRO chairman K Sivan Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief K Sivan said that the Chandrayaan-2 will perform 15 crucial manoeuvres in the days to come. Sivan said that all the preparatory works regarding the launch have been completed and technical snags that developed in the first attempt have been rectified.ISRO is keeping update on the launch. Mueller report shows evidence Trump committed crimes: House Judiciary chairman The top Democrat on the US House Judiciary Committee said Sunday he believes there is "substantial evidence" that President Donald Trump committed high crimes and misdemeanours, and he plans to ask former Special Counsel Robert Mueller to present those facts at a congressional hearing on Wednesday. On course for election win, Ukraine president offers alliance with rockstar Svyatoslav Vakarchuk's party Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's party took a commanding lead in Sunday's snap parliamentary election, handing the novice politician a broader mandate for driving change and tackling corruption in the war-scarred nation.

Hong Kong police fired rubber bullets and tear gas in running clashes with protesters late on Sunday (July 22) amid chaotic scenes as anger over an extradition bill morphs into a fresh front against what many see as a broader erosion of freedoms by Beijing.

Hong Kong police fire rubber bullets, tear gas as protests descend into chaos

Hong Kong descended into chaos Sunday night as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-to-disperse-protesters-in-fresh-wave-of-clashes-237512">riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets</a> at anti-government protesters hours after China's office in the city was daubed with eggs and graffiti in a vivid rebuke to Beijing's rule.

Acrid clouds of tear gas wafted through the city's densely packed commercial district as police battled masked protesters after another huge protest march, with seemingly no end in sight to the turmoil engulfing the finance hub.

A group of masked, stick-wielding government supporters also descended on a group of protesters in a train station, beating multiple people including reporters who live-streamed the assaults.

Hong Kong has been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-on-security-alert-as-thousands-march-in-fresh-wave-of-protests-237449">plunged into its worst crisis</a> in recent history by weeks of marches and sporadic violent confrontations between police and pockets of hardcore protesters.

The initial protests were lit by a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-in-hong-kong-reject-carrie-lams-assertion-extradition-bill-dead-threaten-mass-rallies-234227">now-suspended bill</a> that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China.

But they have since evolved into a wider movement calling for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-locks-down-as-thousands-gather-for-latest-anti-extradition-bill-rally-237420">democratic reforms</a>, universal suffrage and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory.

Tear gas and rubber bullets have become frequent while the city's parliament was trashed by protesters earlier this month -- as Beijing's authority faces its most serious challenge since Hong Kong was handed back to China in 1997.

On Sunday tens of thousands of anti-government protesters marched through the streets, the seventh weekend in-a-row that residents have come out en-masse.

But the march followed a now-familiar pattern,&nbsp;a huge peaceful turnout followed by a night of running clashes with more hardcore groups.

Pro-Beijing vigilantes

The attacks by masked men on protesters was a new escalation and will ratchet up fears that the city's feared triad gangs are wading into the political conflict.

Sunday evening's coordinated assault took place in Yuen Long, a district in the city's New Territories near the Chinese border where the criminal gangs remain influential.

Footage showed the men attacking protesters on the platform and inside trains.

Similar assaults by pro-government vigilantes took place against demonstrators during the 2014 "Umbrella Movement" protests.

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Earlier in the evening protesters had descended on the Liason Office -- the department that represents China's central government -- which was pelted with eggs and daubed with graffiti.&nbsp;

"We are here to declare that Beijing is the one violating our governing values and judicial procedures," a 19-year-old protester who gave his first name as Tony, told AFP.

"You taught us peaceful marches are useless," was one of the slogans sprayed on the Liason Office walls.

Hong Kong's government condemned both the protesters and the men who attacked people in their name.&nbsp;

"This is absolutely unacceptable to Hong Kong as a society that observes the rule of law," the government said in a statement.

Few concessions

Six weeks of huge protests have done little to persuade the city's unelected leaders -- or Beijing -- to change tack on the hub's future.

Under the 1997 handover deal with Britain, China promised to allow Hong Kong to keep key liberties such as its independent judiciary and freedom of speech.

But many say those provisions are already being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders.

Authorities have also resisted calls for the city's leader to be directly elected by the people.

Protesters have vowed to keep their movement going until their core demands are met, such as the resignation of city leader Carrie Lam, an independent inquiry into police tactics, amnesty and permanent withdrawal of the bill.

They have also begun calling once more for universal suffrage.

There is little sign that either Lam or Beijing is willing to budge.

Beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill there have been few other concessions and fears are rising that Beijing's patience is running out.

'Polarisation deepening'

In the afternoon a huge crowd marched through the streets calling on the city's pro-Beijing leader Carrie Lam to heed their demands. Organisers said some 430,000 people turned out.

"Stop turning a deaf ear to the Hong Kong people's demands," Bonnie Leung, from the Civil Human Rights Front, told reporters after the march.

"Carrie Lam really needs to respond and I hope we will see that soon."&nbsp;

On Saturday, the establishment mustered its own supporters in their tens of thousands for a rally, a gathering that was covered in detail by Chinese state media and pro-Beijing newspapers in Hong Kong.

Few see a political solution to the crisis on the horizon.

Steve Vickers, a former head of the police's Criminal Investigation Bureau before the handover who now runs a risk consultancy, said the public order situation would likely "worsen" in the coming weeks. 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong descended into chaos Sunday night as riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at anti-government protesters hours after China's office in the city was daubed with eggs and graffiti in a vivid rebuke to Beijing's rule.

Hong Kong descended into chaos Sunday night as riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at anti-government protesters hours after China's office in the city was daubed with eggs and graffiti in a vivid rebuke to Beijing's rule. Acrid clouds of tear gas wafted through the city's densely packed commercial district as police battled masked protesters after another huge protest march, with seemingly no end in sight to the turmoil engulfing the finance hub. A group of masked, stick-wielding government supporters also descended on a group of protesters in a train station, beating multiple people including reporters who live-streamed the assaults. Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history by weeks of marches and sporadic violent confrontations between police and pockets of hardcore protesters. The initial protests were lit by a now-suspended bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. But they have since evolved into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms, universal suffrage and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory. Tear gas and rubber bullets have become frequent while the city's parliament was trashed by protesters earlier this month -- as Beijing's authority faces its most serious challenge since Hong Kong was handed back to China in 1997. On Sunday tens of thousands of anti-government protesters marched through the streets, the seventh weekend in-a-row that residents have come out en-masse. But the march followed a now-familiar pattern, a huge peaceful turnout followed by a night of running clashes with more hardcore groups. Pro-Beijing vigilantes The attacks by masked men on protesters was a new escalation and will ratchet up fears that the city's feared triad gangs are wading into the political conflict. Sunday evening's coordinated assault took place in Yuen Long, a district in the city's New Territories near the Chinese border where the criminal gangs remain influential. Footage showed the men attacking protesters on the platform and inside trains. Similar assaults by pro-government vigilantes took place against demonstrators during the 2014 "Umbrella Movement" protests. × Earlier in the evening protesters had descended on the Liason Office -- the department that represents China's central government -- which was pelted with eggs and daubed with graffiti. "We are here to declare that Beijing is the one violating our governing values and judicial procedures," a 19-year-old protester who gave his first name as Tony, told AFP. "You taught us peaceful marches are useless," was one of the slogans sprayed on the Liason Office walls. Hong Kong's government condemned both the protesters and the men who attacked people in their name. "This is absolutely unacceptable to Hong Kong as a society that observes the rule of law," the government said in a statement. Few concessions Six weeks of huge protests have done little to persuade the city's unelected leaders -- or Beijing -- to change tack on the hub's future. Under the 1997 handover deal with Britain, China promised to allow Hong Kong to keep key liberties such as its independent judiciary and freedom of speech. But many say those provisions are already being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders. Authorities have also resisted calls for the city's leader to be directly elected by the people. Protesters have vowed to keep their movement going until their core demands are met, such as the resignation of city leader Carrie Lam, an independent inquiry into police tactics, amnesty and permanent withdrawal of the bill. They have also begun calling once more for universal suffrage. There is little sign that either Lam or Beijing is willing to budge. Beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill there have been few other concessions and fears are rising that Beijing's patience is running out. 'Polarisation deepening' In the afternoon a huge crowd marched through the streets calling on the city's pro-Beijing leader Carrie Lam to heed their demands. Organisers said some 430,000 people turned out. "Stop turning a deaf ear to the Hong Kong people's demands," Bonnie Leung, from the Civil Human Rights Front, told reporters after the march. "Carrie Lam really needs to respond and I hope we will see that soon." On Saturday, the establishment mustered its own supporters in their tens of thousands for a rally, a gathering that was covered in detail by Chinese state media and pro-Beijing newspapers in Hong Kong. Few see a political solution to the crisis on the horizon. Steve Vickers, a former head of the police's Criminal Investigation Bureau before the handover who now runs a risk consultancy, said the public order situation would likely "worsen" in the coming weeks.

Hong Kong returns to chaos; armed mob storms train station, multiple people beaten including journalists

China reacted furiously on Monday to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protest-anger-soars-as-45-people-gets-injured-in-yuen-long-train-station-mob-attack-237553"> anti-government protesters vandalising the walls</a> of the Beijing representative's office in Hong Kong and defacing the national emblem.

Thousands of masked pro-democracy demonstrators briefly occupied the road outside China's Liaison Office in the semi-autonomous city Sunday night and targeted the building with eggs, projectiles, laser lights and graffiti in a stark rebuke to Beijing's rule.

China's&nbsp;foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang reacting to the protest said the behaviour of some "radical" Hong Kong protesters violates the bottom line of the "One Country, Two Systems" formula through which Beijing administers the territory, news agency Reuters reported.

Hong Kong has been shaken by massive, sometimes violent, protests initially organised to oppose a now-suspended bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China.

It has now morphed into a wider and sometimes violent movement for democratic reforms.

Protesters have vowed to sustain their movement until their core demands,&nbsp; including universal suffrage and the resignation of the city's pro-Beijing chief executive Carrie Lam, are met.

So far, Beijing has refused to budge. Officials and state media have accused the protesters of playing into the hands of foreign powers who seek to harm China and backed the Hong Kong government.

Beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill, there have been few other concessions and fears are rising that Beijing's patience is running out.

Meanwhile, strongly condemning the anti-government protests,&nbsp;Lam said the targeting of the office was a "challenge" to national sovereignty.

She also described as "shocking" an apparent attack by organised triad criminal gangs on ordinary citizens and protesters at a train station on Sunday, saying authorities would investigate fully.

China reacted furiously on Monday to anti-government protesters vandalising the walls of the Beijing representative's office in Hong Kong and defacing the national emblem.

China reacted furiously on Monday to anti-government protesters vandalising the walls of the Beijing representative's office in Hong Kong and defacing the national emblem. Thousands of masked pro-democracy demonstrators briefly occupied the road outside China's Liaison Office in the semi-autonomous city Sunday night and targeted the building with eggs, projectiles, laser lights and graffiti in a stark rebuke to Beijing's rule. China's foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang reacting to the protest said the behaviour of some "radical" Hong Kong protesters violates the bottom line of the "One Country, Two Systems" formula through which Beijing administers the territory, news agency Reuters reported. Hong Kong has been shaken by massive, sometimes violent, protests initially organised to oppose a now-suspended bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. It has now morphed into a wider and sometimes violent movement for democratic reforms. Protesters have vowed to sustain their movement until their core demands, including universal suffrage and the resignation of the city's pro-Beijing chief executive Carrie Lam, are met. So far, Beijing has refused to budge. Officials and state media have accused the protesters of playing into the hands of foreign powers who seek to harm China and backed the Hong Kong government. Beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill, there have been few other concessions and fears are rising that Beijing's patience is running out. Meanwhile, strongly condemning the anti-government protests, Lam said the targeting of the office was a "challenge" to national sovereignty. She also described as "shocking" an apparent attack by organised triad criminal gangs on ordinary citizens and protesters at a train station on Sunday, saying authorities would investigate fully.

Hong Kong protesters violated 'One Country, Two Systems' bottom line: China Foreign Ministry

Anger soared in Hong Kong on Monday over a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-returns-to-chaos-armed-mob-storms-train-station-multiple-people-beaten-including-reporters-237523">vicious assault against pro-democracy protesters by a mob</a> of suspected triad gangsters that left dozens wounded, one critically, in a dramatic escalation of the political violence plaguing the financial hub.

The city's roiling unrest took a dark turn late Sunday when gangs of men -- most wearing white t-shirts and carrying bats, sticks and metal poles -- set upon anti-government demonstrators as they returned from another huge march earlier that day.

Footage from the attack broadcast live on Facebook showed people screaming as the men beat multiple protesters and journalists in Yuen Long station and inside subway trains, leaving pools of blood on the floor.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Snippet of a live broadcast from lawmaker Lam Cheuk ting, showing self-professed pro-Gov't mobsters attacking passengers in train cars at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MTR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MTR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YuenLong?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YuenLong</a> Stn. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HongKong?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HongKong</a> has 1 of the world's highest cop to population ratio. Where were <a href="https://twitter.com/hkpoliceforce?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hkpoliceforce</a>? Lam was injured as shown live. <a href="https://t.co/Aq5JmJlf5u">pic.twitter.com/Aq5JmJlf5u</a>
— Ray Chan (@ray_slowbeat) <a href="https://twitter.com/ray_slowbeat/status/1152987516124844032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Hospital authorities said 45 people were wounded in the attack, with one man in critical condition and five others with serious injuries.

Critics rounded on the city's embattled police force, accusing officers of taking more than an hour to reach the station despite frantic calls from those under attack and then failing to arrest the armed men who stayed in the streets around the station into Monday morning.

Some men in white shirts were later filmed leaving the scene in cars with Chinese mainland number plates.

Lam Cheuk-ting, a pro-democracy lawmaker, was one of those wounded in the melee, sustaining lacerations to his face and arms.&nbsp;

He criticised police for their response and accused "triad members" of being behind the attacks.

"Their very barbaric and violent acts have already completely violated the bottom line of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-on-security-alert-as-thousands-march-in-fresh-wave-of-protests-237449">Hong Kong</a>'s civilised society," he told reporters early Monday.&nbsp;

'Shame on the government'

Nathan Law, a prominent pro-democracy activist, added on Twitter,&nbsp;"When the Chinese mobs are attacking the citizens, no law enforcement are there. Shame on the government."

The clashes have ratcheted up fears that the city's feared triad gangs are wading into the political conflict.

Yuen Long lies in the New Territories near the Chinese border where the criminal gangs and staunchly pro-Beijing rural committees remain influential.

Similar assaults by pro-government vigilantes against demonstrators during the 2014 "Umbrella Movement" protests were blamed on triads.

Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history by weeks of marches and sporadic violent confrontations between police and pockets of hardcore protesters.

The initial protests were lit by a now-suspended bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China.

But they have since evolved into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms, universal suffrage and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory.

The city's parliament was trashed by protesters earlier this month, as Beijing's authority faces its most serious challenge since Hong Kong was handed back to China in 1997.

Tear gas and rubber bullets

As the mob rampage unfolded in Yuen Long police were simultaneously battling hardcore democracy protesters in the middle of the city's commercial district.

Riot officers fired tear gas and rubber bullets at anti-government protesters, hours after China's office in the city was daubed with eggs and graffiti in a vivid rebuke to Beijing's rule.

Earlier in the day another huge and peaceful anti-government march had made its way through the city -- the seventh weekend in a row that residents have come out en-masse.

Six weeks of huge protests have done little to persuade the city's unelected leaders -- or Beijing -- to change tack on the hub's future.

Under the 1997 handover deal with Britain, China promised to allow Hong Kong to keep key liberties such as its independent judiciary and freedom of speech.

But many say those provisions are already being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders.

Authorities have also resisted calls for the city's leader to be directly elected by the people.

Protesters have vowed to keep their movement going until their core demands are met such as an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill, universal suffrage and Lam's resignation.

There is little sign that either Lam or Beijing will budge.

Beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill there have been few other concessions and fears are rising that Beijing's patience is running out.

Anger soared in Hong Kong on Monday over a vicious assault against pro-democracy protesters by a mob of suspected triad gangsters that left dozens wounded, one critically, in a dramatic escalation of the political violence plaguing the financial hub.

Anger soared in Hong Kong on Monday over a vicious assault against pro-democracy protesters by a mob of suspected triad gangsters that left dozens wounded, one critically, in a dramatic escalation of the political violence plaguing the financial hub. The city's roiling unrest took a dark turn late Sunday when gangs of men -- most wearing white t-shirts and carrying bats, sticks and metal poles -- set upon anti-government demonstrators as they returned from another huge march earlier that day. Footage from the attack broadcast live on Facebook showed people screaming as the men beat multiple protesters and journalists in Yuen Long station and inside subway trains, leaving pools of blood on the floor. Snippet of a live broadcast from lawmaker Lam Cheuk ting, showing self-professed pro-Gov't mobsters attacking passengers in train cars at #MTR #YuenLong Stn. #HongKong has 1 of the world's highest cop to population ratio. Where were @hkpoliceforce? Lam was injured as shown live. pic.twitter.com/Aq5JmJlf5u — Ray Chan (@ray_slowbeat) July 21, 2019 × Hospital authorities said 45 people were wounded in the attack, with one man in critical condition and five others with serious injuries. Critics rounded on the city's embattled police force, accusing officers of taking more than an hour to reach the station despite frantic calls from those under attack and then failing to arrest the armed men who stayed in the streets around the station into Monday morning. Some men in white shirts were later filmed leaving the scene in cars with Chinese mainland number plates. Lam Cheuk-ting, a pro-democracy lawmaker, was one of those wounded in the melee, sustaining lacerations to his face and arms. He criticised police for their response and accused "triad members" of being behind the attacks. "Their very barbaric and violent acts have already completely violated the bottom line of Hong Kong's civilised society," he told reporters early Monday. 'Shame on the government' Nathan Law, a prominent pro-democracy activist, added on Twitter, "When the Chinese mobs are attacking the citizens, no law enforcement are there. Shame on the government." The clashes have ratcheted up fears that the city's feared triad gangs are wading into the political conflict. Yuen Long lies in the New Territories near the Chinese border where the criminal gangs and staunchly pro-Beijing rural committees remain influential. Similar assaults by pro-government vigilantes against demonstrators during the 2014 "Umbrella Movement" protests were blamed on triads. Hong Kong has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history by weeks of marches and sporadic violent confrontations between police and pockets of hardcore protesters. The initial protests were lit by a now-suspended bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. But they have since evolved into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms, universal suffrage and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory. The city's parliament was trashed by protesters earlier this month, as Beijing's authority faces its most serious challenge since Hong Kong was handed back to China in 1997. Tear gas and rubber bullets As the mob rampage unfolded in Yuen Long police were simultaneously battling hardcore democracy protesters in the middle of the city's commercial district. Riot officers fired tear gas and rubber bullets at anti-government protesters, hours after China's office in the city was daubed with eggs and graffiti in a vivid rebuke to Beijing's rule. Earlier in the day another huge and peaceful anti-government march had made its way through the city -- the seventh weekend in a row that residents have come out en-masse. Six weeks of huge protests have done little to persuade the city's unelected leaders -- or Beijing -- to change tack on the hub's future. Under the 1997 handover deal with Britain, China promised to allow Hong Kong to keep key liberties such as its independent judiciary and freedom of speech. But many say those provisions are already being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders. Authorities have also resisted calls for the city's leader to be directly elected by the people. Protesters have vowed to keep their movement going until their core demands are met such as an independent inquiry into police tactics, an amnesty for those arrested, a permanent withdrawal of the bill, universal suffrage and Lam's resignation. There is little sign that either Lam or Beijing will budge. Beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill there have been few other concessions and fears are rising that Beijing's patience is running out.

Hong Kong protest: Anger soars as 45 people gets injured in Yuen Long train station mob attack

Hong Kong is bracing for another huge <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/government-supporters-rally-in-hong-kong-to-seek-end-to-violence-237282">anti-government march</a> on Sunday afternoon with seemingly no end in sight to the turmoil engulfing the finance hub, sparked by years of rising anger over Beijing's rule.

The city has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history by weeks of marches and sporadic violent confrontations between police and pockets of hardcore protesters.&nbsp;

The initial protests were lit by a now-suspended bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China.

But they have since evolved into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms, universal suffrage and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous financial hub.

In a city unaccustomed to such upheaval, police have fired tear gas and rubber bullets while the parliament has been trashed by protesters -- as Beijing's authority faces its most serious challenge since Hong Kong was handed back to China in 1997.

Security tightened

Sunday's rally -- which will follow a now well-trodden route through the main island's streets -- will be the seventh weekend in a row that protesters have come out en masse.

Generally the marches have passed off peacefully but are followed by violence between riot police and small groups of more hardcore protesters.&nbsp;

Security was tightened in the city centre, with metal street fencing often used by protesters to build barricades removed ahead of the march, and large water-filled barriers thrown up around the police headquarters.

The huge crowds have had little luck persuading the city's unelected leaders -- or Beijing -- to change tack on the hub's future.&nbsp;

Under the 1997 handover deal with Britain, China promised to allow Hong Kong to keep key liberties such as its independent judiciary and freedom of speech.

But many say those provisions are already being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders.

Authorities have also resisted calls for the city's leader to be directly elected by the people.

Acrimony deepening

Protesters have vowed to keep their movement going until their core demands are met, such as the resignation of city leader Carrie Lam, an independent inquiry into police tactics, amnesty and permanent withdrawal of the bill.

Yet there is little sign that either Lam or Beijing are willing to budge.&nbsp;

Beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill there has been few other concessions and fears are rising that Beijing's patience is running out.

Earlier this week the South China Morning Post reported that Beijing was drawing up a plan to deal with Hong Kong, citing sources on the mainland.&nbsp;

But the details that were published suggested little appetite to defuse public anger over sliding freedoms and instead focused on shoring up support for Lam and the police. &nbsp;

On Saturday, the establishment mustered its own supporters in their tens of thousands for a rally, a gathering that was covered in detail by Chinese state media and pro-Beijing newspapers in Hong Kong.&nbsp;

Few see a political solution to the crisis on the horizon.

Steve Vickers, a former head of the police's Criminal Investigation Bureau before the handover who now runs a risk consultancy, said the public order situation would likely "worsen" in the coming weeks.&nbsp;

"Polarisation within Hong Kong society and intense acrimony between protesters and police are deepening," he wrote in a note to clients.

"The protests are settling into a pattern of peaceful demonstration culminating in deliberately orchestrated violence, before a lull in preparation for the next 'battle'," he added.

Hong Kong is bracing for another huge anti-government march on Sunday afternoon with seemingly no end in sight to the turmoil engulfing the finance hub, sparked by years of rising anger over Beijing's rule.

Hong Kong is bracing for another huge anti-government march on Sunday afternoon with seemingly no end in sight to the turmoil engulfing the finance hub, sparked by years of rising anger over Beijing's rule. The city has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history by weeks of marches and sporadic violent confrontations between police and pockets of hardcore protesters. The initial protests were lit by a now-suspended bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. But they have since evolved into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms, universal suffrage and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous financial hub. In a city unaccustomed to such upheaval, police have fired tear gas and rubber bullets while the parliament has been trashed by protesters -- as Beijing's authority faces its most serious challenge since Hong Kong was handed back to China in 1997. Security tightened Sunday's rally -- which will follow a now well-trodden route through the main island's streets -- will be the seventh weekend in a row that protesters have come out en masse. Generally the marches have passed off peacefully but are followed by violence between riot police and small groups of more hardcore protesters. Security was tightened in the city centre, with metal street fencing often used by protesters to build barricades removed ahead of the march, and large water-filled barriers thrown up around the police headquarters. The huge crowds have had little luck persuading the city's unelected leaders -- or Beijing -- to change tack on the hub's future. Under the 1997 handover deal with Britain, China promised to allow Hong Kong to keep key liberties such as its independent judiciary and freedom of speech. But many say those provisions are already being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders. Authorities have also resisted calls for the city's leader to be directly elected by the people. Acrimony deepening Protesters have vowed to keep their movement going until their core demands are met, such as the resignation of city leader Carrie Lam, an independent inquiry into police tactics, amnesty and permanent withdrawal of the bill. Yet there is little sign that either Lam or Beijing are willing to budge. Beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill there has been few other concessions and fears are rising that Beijing's patience is running out. Earlier this week the South China Morning Post reported that Beijing was drawing up a plan to deal with Hong Kong, citing sources on the mainland. But the details that were published suggested little appetite to defuse public anger over sliding freedoms and instead focused on shoring up support for Lam and the police. On Saturday, the establishment mustered its own supporters in their tens of thousands for a rally, a gathering that was covered in detail by Chinese state media and pro-Beijing newspapers in Hong Kong. Few see a political solution to the crisis on the horizon. Steve Vickers, a former head of the police's Criminal Investigation Bureau before the handover who now runs a risk consultancy, said the public order situation would likely "worsen" in the coming weeks. "Polarisation within Hong Kong society and intense acrimony between protesters and police are deepening," he wrote in a note to clients. "The protests are settling into a pattern of peaceful demonstration culminating in deliberately orchestrated violence, before a lull in preparation for the next 'battle'," he added.

Hong Kong braces for fresh anti-government march

Thousands of protesters descended on China’s representative office in Hong Kong, as anger over an extradition bill morphs into a fresh front. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong: Thousands protest for complete withdrawal of extradition bill

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