Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday said she hoped "calm" will prevail after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-facebook-dismantle-social-media-campaign-in-china-that-tried-to-undermine-hong-kong-protests-244261">massive weekend march</a> passed without clashes between police and demonstrators, but again refused to give ground to protester demands.&nbsp;

Hundreds of thousands of people marched through the heart of the city on Sunday in a show of peaceful protest after escalating street battles with police drew stark warnings from Beijing and threatened to undermine public support.

"On Sunday, many Hong Kong residents participated in a rally at Victoria Park that was largely peaceful," Chief Executive Carrie Lam said at a televised press conference.&nbsp;

"I wholeheartedly hope that this is the beginning of society returning to calm and staying away from violence."&nbsp;

The protests began against a proposed extradition law to China but morphed into a pro-democracy movement sparking the city's biggest political crisis in decades.

They have been fuelled by anger over alleged police brutality, with tear gas and rubber bullets deployed against protesters.&nbsp;

Lam reported 174 complaints have been made against police since protests began.

She said they would be "robustly" investigated by the Independent Police Complaints Council, whose head is appointed by the chief executive.

However, the probe is unlikely to satisfy protesters who have called for an independent inquiry by an external body.&nbsp;

In addition to universal suffrage and cancelling the extradition bill, protesters also demand the release of those detained during clashes.

Lam, pilloried by press and protesters for failing to step down while the city plunges into crisis, said her government would continue a "fact-finding mission" on how to move forward from the demonstrations.&nbsp;

She took a softer tone than in recent weeks, but again refused to formally withdraw the contentious extradition bill, repeating only that: "The bill is dead. There's no plan to revive this bill."

The chaos has caused mounting concerns for business and investment in Hong Kong, with the effects of the trouble particularly impacting the tourism industry.&nbsp;

"One of its most important strengths is the rule of law," Lam said of the financial hub.&nbsp;

"That's why we have been doing so much to ensure that the rule of law is being upheld and respected in Hong Kong."

Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday said she hoped "calm" will prevail after a massive weekend march passed without clashes between police and demonstrators, but again refused to give ground to protester demands.

Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday said she hoped "calm" will prevail after a massive weekend march passed without clashes between police and demonstrators, but again refused to give ground to protester demands. Hundreds of thousands of people marched through the heart of the city on Sunday in a show of peaceful protest after escalating street battles with police drew stark warnings from Beijing and threatened to undermine public support. "On Sunday, many Hong Kong residents participated in a rally at Victoria Park that was largely peaceful," Chief Executive Carrie Lam said at a televised press conference. "I wholeheartedly hope that this is the beginning of society returning to calm and staying away from violence." The protests began against a proposed extradition law to China but morphed into a pro-democracy movement sparking the city's biggest political crisis in decades. They have been fuelled by anger over alleged police brutality, with tear gas and rubber bullets deployed against protesters. Lam reported 174 complaints have been made against police since protests began. She said they would be "robustly" investigated by the Independent Police Complaints Council, whose head is appointed by the chief executive. However, the probe is unlikely to satisfy protesters who have called for an independent inquiry by an external body. In addition to universal suffrage and cancelling the extradition bill, protesters also demand the release of those detained during clashes. Lam, pilloried by press and protesters for failing to step down while the city plunges into crisis, said her government would continue a "fact-finding mission" on how to move forward from the demonstrations. She took a softer tone than in recent weeks, but again refused to formally withdraw the contentious extradition bill, repeating only that: "The bill is dead. There's no plan to revive this bill." The chaos has caused mounting concerns for business and investment in Hong Kong, with the effects of the trouble particularly impacting the tourism industry. "One of its most important strengths is the rule of law," Lam said of the financial hub. "That's why we have been doing so much to ensure that the rule of law is being upheld and respected in Hong Kong."

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam hopes peaceful rally presages 'return to calm'

Twitter and Facebook said on Monday they had dismantled a state-backed social media campaign originating in mainland China that sought to undermine <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-doesnt-need-suggestions-says-china-after-trumps-tiananmen-comment-244101">protests in Hong Kong</a>.

Twitter said it suspended 936 accounts and the operations appeared to be a coordinated state-backed effort originating in China.

It said these accounts were just the most active portions of this campaign and that a "larger, spammy network" of approximately 200,000 accounts had been proactively suspended before they were substantially active.

Facebook said it had removed accounts and pages from a small network after a tip from Twitter. It said that its investigation found links to individuals associated with the Chinese government.

The Hong Kong protests, which have presented one of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-lashes-taiwan-over-offer-to-hong-kong-protesters-244168">biggest challenges for Chinese President Xi Jinping</a> since he came to power in 2012, began in June as opposition to a now-suspended bill that would allow suspects to be extradited to mainland China for trial in Communist Party-controlled courts. They have since swelled into wider calls for democracy.

Social media companies globally are under pressure to stem illicit political influence campaigns online, especially ahead of the US election in November 2020.

A 22-month US investigation concluded Russia interfered in a "sweeping and systematic fashion" in the 2016 US election to help Donald Trump win the presidency.

The Chinese embassy in Washington and the US State Department did not respond to requests for comment.

Twitter in a blog post said the accounts undermined the legitimacy and political positions of the protest movement in Hong Kong.

Watch:&nbsp;Hong Kong: 1.7 million people take to peaceful protests

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Examples of posts provided by Twitter included a tweet from a user with photos of protesters storming Hong Kong's Legislative Council building, which asked,&nbsp;"Are these people who smashed the Legco crazy or taking benefits from the bad guys? It's a complete violent behaviour, we don't want you radical people in Hong Kong. Just get out of here!"

In examples provided by Facebook, posts described the protesters as cockroaches who "refused to show their faces."

Facebook's head of cybersecurity policy Nathaniel Gleicher told reporters that the bulk of the Facebook accounts were created in 2018.

Both Twitter and Facebook are blocked in mainland China by the government but available in Hong Kong.

Twitter changes ad policy

Twitter and Facebook have come under fire from users over showing ads from state-controlled media that criticized the Hong Kong protesters.

In response, Twitter said Monday it would no longer accept advertising from state-controlled news media. Twitter told Reuters the advertising change was not related to the suspended accounts.

In the past week, China's official Xinhua news agency and state broadcaster China Global Television Network (CGTN) paid to promote videos that portrayed the protests as violent and said Hong Kong citizens wanted the demonstrations to end, according to Twitter's Ads Transparency Center.

Twitter said it did not have data on how much revenue it generates from state-controlled media advertising.

Many countries including the United States do not have clear standards on state media's purchase of online advertising.

Total digital ad spending in Hong Kong will grow 11% to reach $786.1 million in 2019, according to projections by US digital market data analyst eMarketer.

Alphabet YouTube video service told Reuters in June that state-owned media companies maintained the same privileges as any other user, including the ability to run ads in accordance with its rules. YouTube did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Monday on whether it had detected inauthentic content related to protests in Hong Kong.

In a tweet on Sunday, China’s influential state-run tabloid, The Global Times, hailed the response of Chinese “netizens” to the protests, saying: ''Chinese netizens' power! Amid escalating protests in Hong Kong, Chinese netizens on Saturday swept Facebook and Instagram to denounce secessionist posts and show support for Hong Kong police.''

About 98% of social network users in Hong Kong, or 4.7 million people, will log into Facebook at least once a month in 2019, according to eMarketer projections, while 9.4% of social network users will use Twitter.

Shares of Facebook rose 1.3% and Twitter rose 2.8%.

Twitter and Facebook said on Monday they had dismantled a state-backed social media campaign originating in mainland China that sought to undermine protests in Hong Kong.

Twitter and Facebook said on Monday they had dismantled a state-backed social media campaign originating in mainland China that sought to undermine protests in Hong Kong. Twitter said it suspended 936 accounts and the operations appeared to be a coordinated state-backed effort originating in China. It said these accounts were just the most active portions of this campaign and that a "larger, spammy network" of approximately 200,000 accounts had been proactively suspended before they were substantially active. Facebook said it had removed accounts and pages from a small network after a tip from Twitter. It said that its investigation found links to individuals associated with the Chinese government. The Hong Kong protests, which have presented one of the biggest challenges for Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012, began in June as opposition to a now-suspended bill that would allow suspects to be extradited to mainland China for trial in Communist Party-controlled courts. They have since swelled into wider calls for democracy. Social media companies globally are under pressure to stem illicit political influence campaigns online, especially ahead of the US election in November 2020. A 22-month US investigation concluded Russia interfered in a "sweeping and systematic fashion" in the 2016 US election to help Donald Trump win the presidency. The Chinese embassy in Washington and the US State Department did not respond to requests for comment. Twitter in a blog post said the accounts undermined the legitimacy and political positions of the protest movement in Hong Kong. Watch: Hong Kong: 1.7 million people take to peaceful protests Examples of posts provided by Twitter included a tweet from a user with photos of protesters storming Hong Kong's Legislative Council building, which asked, "Are these people who smashed the Legco crazy or taking benefits from the bad guys? It's a complete violent behaviour, we don't want you radical people in Hong Kong. Just get out of here!" In examples provided by Facebook, posts described the protesters as cockroaches who "refused to show their faces." Facebook's head of cybersecurity policy Nathaniel Gleicher told reporters that the bulk of the Facebook accounts were created in 2018. Both Twitter and Facebook are blocked in mainland China by the government but available in Hong Kong. Twitter changes ad policy Twitter and Facebook have come under fire from users over showing ads from state-controlled media that criticized the Hong Kong protesters. In response, Twitter said Monday it would no longer accept advertising from state-controlled news media. Twitter told Reuters the advertising change was not related to the suspended accounts. In the past week, China's official Xinhua news agency and state broadcaster China Global Television Network (CGTN) paid to promote videos that portrayed the protests as violent and said Hong Kong citizens wanted the demonstrations to end, according to Twitter's Ads Transparency Center. Twitter said it did not have data on how much revenue it generates from state-controlled media advertising. Many countries including the United States do not have clear standards on state media's purchase of online advertising. Total digital ad spending in Hong Kong will grow 11% to reach $786.1 million in 2019, according to projections by US digital market data analyst eMarketer. Alphabet YouTube video service told Reuters in June that state-owned media companies maintained the same privileges as any other user, including the ability to run ads in accordance with its rules. YouTube did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Monday on whether it had detected inauthentic content related to protests in Hong Kong. In a tweet on Sunday, China’s influential state-run tabloid, The Global Times, hailed the response of Chinese “netizens” to the protests, saying: ''Chinese netizens' power! Amid escalating protests in Hong Kong, Chinese netizens on Saturday swept Facebook and Instagram to denounce secessionist posts and show support for Hong Kong police.'' About 98% of social network users in Hong Kong, or 4.7 million people, will log into Facebook at least once a month in 2019, according to eMarketer projections, while 9.4% of social network users will use Twitter. Shares of Facebook rose 1.3% and Twitter rose 2.8%.

Twitter, Facebook dismantle social media campaign in China that tried to undermine Hong Kong protests

Ten weeks of confrontations between police and protesters have plunged Hong Kong into turmoil, and present the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. The protests began as opposition to a now-suspended bill that would have allowed suspects to be extradited to mainland China and have swelled into wider calls for democracy.

Timeline of Hong Kong political movements

Police regain control in Indonesia's Papua region after protests

Hundreds of women demanding protection from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-business-as-usual-at-mexicos-southern-border-despite-trump-deal-225581">Mexico City's</a> police force took to the streets Friday after several high-profile sexual assault cases involving serving officers.

To shouts of "I do believe you!" and "My friends protect me, you don't," the initially peaceful rally ended with some participants lighting a fire on the second floor of a police building and vandalizing a bus station.

The protesters also sprayed graffiti on the capital's Independence Monument, adorning the base of the stone edifice with the slogan "damned pigs!"

Two reports of attacks on women this month have sparked outrage and bitter recriminations against the city's police force, with protesters mobilizing on social media through the hashtag #NoMeCuidanMeViolan, or "They don't protect me, they rape me."&nbsp;

A 17-year-old girl said four police officers assaulted her in a patrol car in the city's north.

An officer was accused of assaulting a 16-year-old in a museum just days later.

"I worry young women cannot go to school or return from a quiet party because someone will rape them, just because they can," said Melissa Ortiz, who attended the march.

The 40-year-old said there were few protections for women, especially when the men accused were the authorities "that should be protecting us."

The city has suspended six police officers as part of the investigation into the 17-year-old's alleged assault, but no arrests have been made.

The prosecution has also said there were inconsistencies with the teenager's account of the incident.

A man was arrested last week in connection with the alleged attack on the 16-year-old.

Violence against women, in the form of femicide, abuse, harassment, and sexual assaults, has intensified in the country in recent years.&nbsp;

According to the United Nations, an average of nine women are murdered daily in Mexico.

Hundreds of women demanding protection from Mexico City's police force took to the streets Friday after several high-profile sexual assault cases involving serving officers.

Hundreds of women demanding protection from Mexico City's police force took to the streets Friday after several high-profile sexual assault cases involving serving officers. To shouts of "I do believe you!" and "My friends protect me, you don't," the initially peaceful rally ended with some participants lighting a fire on the second floor of a police building and vandalizing a bus station. The protesters also sprayed graffiti on the capital's Independence Monument, adorning the base of the stone edifice with the slogan "damned pigs!" Two reports of attacks on women this month have sparked outrage and bitter recriminations against the city's police force, with protesters mobilizing on social media through the hashtag #NoMeCuidanMeViolan, or "They don't protect me, they rape me." A 17-year-old girl said four police officers assaulted her in a patrol car in the city's north. An officer was accused of assaulting a 16-year-old in a museum just days later. "I worry young women cannot go to school or return from a quiet party because someone will rape them, just because they can," said Melissa Ortiz, who attended the march. The 40-year-old said there were few protections for women, especially when the men accused were the authorities "that should be protecting us." The city has suspended six police officers as part of the investigation into the 17-year-old's alleged assault, but no arrests have been made. The prosecution has also said there were inconsistencies with the teenager's account of the incident. A man was arrested last week in connection with the alleged attack on the 16-year-old. Violence against women, in the form of femicide, abuse, harassment, and sexual assaults, has intensified in the country in recent years. According to the United Nations, an average of nine women are murdered daily in Mexico.

Hundreds of Mexican women protest police rape of a teenager

A building in a northern Peruvian town was set on fire on Friday in a protest against China National Petroleum Corp that devolved into clashes between police and demonstrators who want the company to make pledges to help the local community, an industry source said.

A building in a northern Peruvian town was set on fire on Friday in a protest against China National Petroleum Corp that devolved into clashes between police and demonstrators who want the company to make pledges to help the local community, an industry source said. The unrest follows the breakdown of talks between the company and residents in the district of El Alto, in a desert coastal region near three offshore oil blocks that CNPC operates. Residents want CNPC to agree to a series of commitments to local development, including a guarantee that it will 100 jobs for young people, said the source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. There were no initial reports of deaths in the clashes, but the offices of a Bogota-based company that provides maintenance services to CNPC, Confipetrol, were set on fire, the source added. CNPC and Confipetrol could not immediately be reached for comment outside of normal business hours on Friday. TV images on local broadcaster Canal N showed black fumes spewing from a building in El Alto. The local firefighters' office declined to provide comment over the phone. Peru is rife with protests against mining and oil and natural gas operations, often turning deadly when police try to repel crowds from roads. But arson is rare. CNPC, which says it has operated offshore oil blocks in Peru since 1993, has largely steered clear of the kind of protests that have blocked billions of dollars in mining investments in one of Latin America's most stable economies. The unrest in El Alto is the latest flare-up in social conflicts that President Martin Vizcarra's government has struggled to contain in recent weeks. Protests continued on Friday against two major mining projects - copper mines proposed by Southern Copper Corp and Anglo American worth more than $6 billion - blocking roads in southern Peru. A spokeswoman for Peru's Energy and Mines Ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment. CNPC's offshore oil blocks in northern Peru produce an average of 14,500 barrels of oil per day, according to the company's website.

Building set on fire in protest against China's CNPC in Peru

Chinese state media called on Beijing on Wednesday to deal with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-airport-resumes-flights-after-clashes-mass-protests-242850">protests in Hong Kong</a> more decisively after a reporter from one of China`s largest government-backed newspapers was caught up in overnight clashes.

Ten weeks of increasingly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-violent-protest-in-hong-kong-civil-unrest-242887">violent clashes</a> between police and pro-democracy protesters, angered by a perceived erosion of freedoms, are posing one of the biggest challenges for Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012.&nbsp;

Demonstrators and riot police clashed at Hong Kong`s airport late on Tuesday after flights were cancelled for a second day. Protesters at one point held a man who Chinese media have said was a reporter from China`s Global Times newspaper.

A front-page commentary on the overseas edition of the Communist Party`s official People`s Daily newspaper said on Wednesday Hong Kong had reached a critical juncture.&nbsp;

"Using the sword of the law to stop violence and restore order is overwhelmingly the most important and urgent task for Hong Kong!" it said.

Another commentary by a Shenzhen University researcher, published by the China Daily, said the central government should deal with Hong Kong issues more decisively.

US President Donald Trump said on Twitter overnight the Chinese government was moving troops to the border with Hong Kong and urged calm.

However, Chinese state media has stopped short of calling for military action to deal with the protests.&nbsp;

Demonstrators say they are fighting the erosion of the "one country, two systems" arrangement that enshrined some autonomy for Hong Kong after China took it back from Britain in 1997.

"Extreme political ideas have found frequent expression in Hong Kong, with some even raising `Hong Kong independence` slogans recently. Which means the `one country, two systems` principle faces a new challenge," Chinese author Li Peiwen said.&nbsp;

Chinese state media has also posted messages of support for the Hong Kong police, describing what was happening in the city as "a shame". Such posts were the most-discussed topics on China`s social media platforms on Wednesday.&nbsp;

"We support the Hong Kong police too!" said a post on the People`s Daily`s official Twitter-like Weibo account that was reposted more than 500,000 times.&nbsp;

Global Times editor Hu Xijin said one of the newspaper`s reporters was rescued by police after being tied up by demonstrators. The tabloid is published by the People`s Daily.

"GT reporter Fu Guohao has been rescued by police and sent to the hospital. We`re still learning about his injury conditions," said in a tweet.

Chinese state broadcaster CCTV called Fu "a real man" in a another Weibo post that had more than 140,000 "likes".&nbsp;

Netizens have been closely watching what Beijing might do next after China this week condemned some protesters for using dangerous tools to attack police and said the clashes showed "sprouts of terrorism."

The Global Times reported on Monday that China`s People`s Armed Police assembled in the southeastern city of Shenzhen, fuelling speculation of a possible intervention in Hong Kong.&nbsp;

Some reactions on China`s social media platforms called for Beijing to intervene while many others urged calm.

Chinese state media called on Beijing on Wednesday to deal with protests in Hong Kong more decisively after a reporter from one of China`s largest government-backed newspapers was caught up in overnight clashes.

Chinese state media called on Beijing on Wednesday to deal with protests in Hong Kong more decisively after a reporter from one of China`s largest government-backed newspapers was caught up in overnight clashes. Ten weeks of increasingly violent clashes between police and pro-democracy protesters, angered by a perceived erosion of freedoms, are posing one of the biggest challenges for Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Demonstrators and riot police clashed at Hong Kong`s airport late on Tuesday after flights were cancelled for a second day. Protesters at one point held a man who Chinese media have said was a reporter from China`s Global Times newspaper. A front-page commentary on the overseas edition of the Communist Party`s official People`s Daily newspaper said on Wednesday Hong Kong had reached a critical juncture. "Using the sword of the law to stop violence and restore order is overwhelmingly the most important and urgent task for Hong Kong!" it said. Another commentary by a Shenzhen University researcher, published by the China Daily, said the central government should deal with Hong Kong issues more decisively. US President Donald Trump said on Twitter overnight the Chinese government was moving troops to the border with Hong Kong and urged calm. However, Chinese state media has stopped short of calling for military action to deal with the protests. Demonstrators say they are fighting the erosion of the "one country, two systems" arrangement that enshrined some autonomy for Hong Kong after China took it back from Britain in 1997. "Extreme political ideas have found frequent expression in Hong Kong, with some even raising `Hong Kong independence` slogans recently. Which means the `one country, two systems` principle faces a new challenge," Chinese author Li Peiwen said. Chinese state media has also posted messages of support for the Hong Kong police, describing what was happening in the city as "a shame". Such posts were the most-discussed topics on China`s social media platforms on Wednesday. "We support the Hong Kong police too!" said a post on the People`s Daily`s official Twitter-like Weibo account that was reposted more than 500,000 times. Global Times editor Hu Xijin said one of the newspaper`s reporters was rescued by police after being tied up by demonstrators. The tabloid is published by the People`s Daily. "GT reporter Fu Guohao has been rescued by police and sent to the hospital. We`re still learning about his injury conditions," said in a tweet. Chinese state broadcaster CCTV called Fu "a real man" in a another Weibo post that had more than 140,000 "likes". Netizens have been closely watching what Beijing might do next after China this week condemned some protesters for using dangerous tools to attack police and said the clashes showed "sprouts of terrorism." The Global Times reported on Monday that China`s People`s Armed Police assembled in the southeastern city of Shenzhen, fuelling speculation of a possible intervention in Hong Kong. Some reactions on China`s social media platforms called for Beijing to intervene while many others urged calm.

Chinese state media urge action, voice support for Hong Kong police after overnight clashes

Airport <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-airport-resumes-flights-after-clashes-mass-protests-242850">operations resumed on Wednesday in Hong Kong</a> after two days of protest in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-hong-kong-violence-as-terrorism-airport-cancels-all-flight-operations-due-to-protests-242394">Chinese controlled city</a>.

Hundreds of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flights-cancelled-in-hong-kong-airport-as-protests-escalate-242407">flights that had been disrupted </a>over the past two days were started again.

The unrest, which has seen<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-hong-kong-protesters-return-to-streets-for-tenth-week-riot-police-fire-tears-gas-into-rail-station-242309"> millions of people take to Hong Kong's streets</a>, was sparked by opposition to a planned law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China.

Watch: Violent clashes in Hong Kong

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But it quickly evolved into a much broader campaign for democratic freedoms, and to stop the growing influence of China's authoritarian rulers in the semi-autonomous city.

On Monday and Tuesday, thousands of protesters wearing their signature black T-shirts gathered at Hong Kong's airport, forcing hundreds of flights to be cancelled.

After initially just voicing their demands with peaceful demonstrations, the protesters adopted more aggressive tactics on Tuesday and created barricades with luggage trolleys to block passengers at the departure halls.

Late on Tuesday night, the protests descended into a series of violent confrontations with police, and demonstrators scuffling with passengers desperate to get on flights.

In one particularly ugly scene filmed by media, a group of protesters ganged up on a policeman and beat him. They stopped their attack when the policeman pulled his gun and pointed it at them, but did not fire.

Demonstrators also turned on two men, fuelled by suspicions within their ranks about undercover police or spies.

The first man was held for about two hours before eventually being led away in an ambulance. Riot police briefly deployed pepper spray and batons to beat back protesters while they escorted the vehicle away from the departures hall. &nbsp;

Another man, wearing a yellow journalist vest, was surrounded, zip-tied and then beaten by a small group who accused him of being a spy.

In a tweet, Hu Xijun, the editor of China's state-controlled Global Times tabloid -- which has vociferously condemned the protests -- said the man was a journalist working for the paper.

By early Wednesday, most protesters had left and many flights were operating as scheduled in the morning.

However, it was unclear if the protesters, who have no public leaders and organise via social media, would return to the airport.

The Airport Authority has obtained an injunction to remove demonstrators but enforcing it may prove difficult, as the hub is designed to make entry as fast and efficient as possible.

Passengers can also arrive via bus, train and taxi, with each mode of transport having different entrances.

Airport operations resumed on Wednesday in Hong Kong after two days of protest in the Chinese controlled city. Hundreds of flights that had been disrupted over the past two days were started again.

Airport operations resumed on Wednesday in Hong Kong after two days of protest in the Chinese controlled city. Hundreds of flights that had been disrupted over the past two days were started again. The unrest, which has seen millions of people take to Hong Kong's streets, was sparked by opposition to a planned law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. Watch: Violent clashes in Hong Kong × But it quickly evolved into a much broader campaign for democratic freedoms, and to stop the growing influence of China's authoritarian rulers in the semi-autonomous city. On Monday and Tuesday, thousands of protesters wearing their signature black T-shirts gathered at Hong Kong's airport, forcing hundreds of flights to be cancelled. After initially just voicing their demands with peaceful demonstrations, the protesters adopted more aggressive tactics on Tuesday and created barricades with luggage trolleys to block passengers at the departure halls. Late on Tuesday night, the protests descended into a series of violent confrontations with police, and demonstrators scuffling with passengers desperate to get on flights. In one particularly ugly scene filmed by media, a group of protesters ganged up on a policeman and beat him. They stopped their attack when the policeman pulled his gun and pointed it at them, but did not fire. Demonstrators also turned on two men, fuelled by suspicions within their ranks about undercover police or spies. The first man was held for about two hours before eventually being led away in an ambulance. Riot police briefly deployed pepper spray and batons to beat back protesters while they escorted the vehicle away from the departures hall. Another man, wearing a yellow journalist vest, was surrounded, zip-tied and then beaten by a small group who accused him of being a spy. In a tweet, Hu Xijun, the editor of China's state-controlled Global Times tabloid -- which has vociferously condemned the protests -- said the man was a journalist working for the paper. By early Wednesday, most protesters had left and many flights were operating as scheduled in the morning. However, it was unclear if the protesters, who have no public leaders and organise via social media, would return to the airport. The Airport Authority has obtained an injunction to remove demonstrators but enforcing it may prove difficult, as the hub is designed to make entry as fast and efficient as possible. Passengers can also arrive via bus, train and taxi, with each mode of transport having different entrances.

Watch: Violence at Hong Kong airport as police and protesters clash

Dozens of activists joined a protest in front of Japan's de facto embassy in Taipei on Wednesday (August 14), demanding an official formal apology and monetary compensation for the Taiwanese 'comfort women' who were forced to work in Japanese wartime brothels.

Taiwan activists demand Japan apologise for forcing women to work in its wartime brothels

Erin Hale, Correspondent on speaks on the current situation in Hong Kong Airport.

WION Dispatch: Erin Hale, Correspondent on Protest in Hong Kong Airport

Several thousand people gathered on Monday for the fourth day of protest at Hong Kong's busy international airport. It came as police fired water cannon as pro-democracy street protests continued on the streets of one of the city's main shopping districts. Watch this video to know more about the story.

11th week of anti-government protest in Hong Kong

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 11th, 2019

Hong Kong protests continue, thousands participated in a flash mob defying a police ban on demonstrations. The protest soon turned violent as police fire tear gas at marchers. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong: Protesters defy ban, organise flash mob

Police removed barricades put up by the protesters. 3 days protest still underway at Hong Kong Airport. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong: Relentless protest enters 3rd month, Leader refuses to buckle down

Hong Kong: Rally turns violent as police fire tear gas at marchers

For decades the Equestrian and Racing Club has given upper-crust Sudanese the chance to learn horse riding and watch horse racing in a shady compound set apart from the surrounding urban bustle of the capital Khartoum.&nbsp; &nbsp;

But the club has had to cut back activities since popular unrest erupted in December and led to the fall of autocratic President Omar al-Bashir in April, dampening higher social life.

Horse races were halted and attendance at equestrian classes dwindled after protests broke out in the dusty streets of the capital on the Nile river, with the loss of scores of lives as security forces cracked down.&nbsp;

"The main problem is that people don`t have enough cash (for the club), they're keeping it to live on, not to bring children to ride horses," said Rafat Awad, the club`s treasurer.

"You see the situation in our country, people dying. You can't just go and race. Some people are sad, some are angry, some still waging revolution, so we found it wasn't&nbsp;right to stage competitions."&nbsp;

The club was founded in 1908 under British colonial rule but betting on horse races ended in 1983 when sharia (Islamic law) took effect. Before being halted, horse races were run through sponsorships and some 200 horses are kept in the club's stables.&nbsp;

There has been a modest resurgence of visitors to the club in recent weeks as violence has eased following a political transition deal between the temporary ruling military council and opposition leaders.

Around two dozen people, including children, come for riding classes in the evenings, after the searing daytime heat eases, often watched by their families.

Lessons are offered daily except Friday, the Muslim holy day, for 1,400 Sudanese pounds (nearly $20) a month - a sum beyond the means of most Sudanese, let alone the cost of buying and keeping a horse at the club.&nbsp;

Some female club members describe how they`ve had to overcome the disapproval of women participating in a sport that is common in strictly Islamic Sudan.

&nbsp;"If your family members are interested, it's easier than if you start on your own," said Einas, 18, who has been riding for one year. Her father has racehorses and has won competitions. She said that in Sudan, however, racing was mainly a man`s sport while women often practiced show-jumping.

Twenty-four-year-old Sagada, a club member who had been riding for 11 years, said: "My mum brought me here, my family doesn't mind that I'm a woman riding.&nbsp;

"It can be a bit hard - some people disapprove of how we are dressed," she added, referring to tight-fitting equestrian garb.

For decades the Equestrian and Racing Club has given upper-crust Sudanese the chance to learn horse riding and watch horse racing in a shady compound set apart from the surrounding urban bustle of the capital Khartoum.

For decades the Equestrian and Racing Club has given upper-crust Sudanese the chance to learn horse riding and watch horse racing in a shady compound set apart from the surrounding urban bustle of the capital Khartoum. But the club has had to cut back activities since popular unrest erupted in December and led to the fall of autocratic President Omar al-Bashir in April, dampening higher social life. Horse races were halted and attendance at equestrian classes dwindled after protests broke out in the dusty streets of the capital on the Nile river, with the loss of scores of lives as security forces cracked down. "The main problem is that people don`t have enough cash (for the club), they're keeping it to live on, not to bring children to ride horses," said Rafat Awad, the club`s treasurer. "You see the situation in our country, people dying. You can't just go and race. Some people are sad, some are angry, some still waging revolution, so we found it wasn't right to stage competitions." The club was founded in 1908 under British colonial rule but betting on horse races ended in 1983 when sharia (Islamic law) took effect. Before being halted, horse races were run through sponsorships and some 200 horses are kept in the club's stables. There has been a modest resurgence of visitors to the club in recent weeks as violence has eased following a political transition deal between the temporary ruling military council and opposition leaders. Around two dozen people, including children, come for riding classes in the evenings, after the searing daytime heat eases, often watched by their families. Lessons are offered daily except Friday, the Muslim holy day, for 1,400 Sudanese pounds (nearly $20) a month - a sum beyond the means of most Sudanese, let alone the cost of buying and keeping a horse at the club. Some female club members describe how they`ve had to overcome the disapproval of women participating in a sport that is common in strictly Islamic Sudan. "If your family members are interested, it's easier than if you start on your own," said Einas, 18, who has been riding for one year. Her father has racehorses and has won competitions. She said that in Sudan, however, racing was mainly a man`s sport while women often practiced show-jumping. Twenty-four-year-old Sagada, a club member who had been riding for 11 years, said: "My mum brought me here, my family doesn't mind that I'm a woman riding. "It can be a bit hard - some people disapprove of how we are dressed," she added, referring to tight-fitting equestrian garb.

Khartoum's Equestrian Club struggles amid Sudan upheaval

'Each of us writes': Hong Kong's discontent fuels creative art

The United States raised its travel warning for Hong Kong, urging increased caution by visitors to the Chinese territory in the face of what it described as civil unrest after months of sometimes violent street protests.

The United States raised its travel warning for Hong Kong, urging increased caution by visitors to the Chinese territory in the face of what it described as civil unrest after months of sometimes violent street protests. The protests in the Asian financial hub began with opposition to a now-suspended extradition law and have evolved into a direct challenge to the city's government and calls for full democracy. "The protests and confrontations have spilled over into neighbourhoods other than those where the police have permitted marches or rallies," said the advisory, posted on the website of the U.S. state department on Wednesday. "These demonstrations, which can take place with little or no notice, are likely to continue," it added. The advisory was raised to level two on a four-point scale. Australia also warned its travellers in an updated advisory. The protests pose a grave popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Xi is also grappling with a debilitating trade war with the United States and a slowing economy. China's Foreign Ministry lodged stern representations with the United States, urging U.S. officials to stop sending wrong signals to the "violent separatists" in Hong Kong. The protests have left Hong Kong facing its worst crisis since it returned to China from British rule in 1997, the head of China's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs office said. More protests are planned in several districts across the city this weekend, starting on Friday, with demonstrators also planning a three-day rally at the city's international airport. Police warned activists to protest peacefully and said they had detained three more people, raising the number arrested to nearly 600 since protests began in June, the youngest aged 13. Protesters want the city's embattled leader Carrie Lam to categorically withdraw the extradition bill and an independent inquiry into the government and the police handling of the controversy. Lam, who says the bill is dead but has not withdrawn it, visited some districts on Wednesday to speak with residents and inspect a police station recently targeted by protesters. The government would put forward measures to improve people's livelihoods, she said in a statement after the visit. Further demonstrations Young people are at the forefront of the protests, worried about China encroaching on Hong Kong's freedoms. The city is already battling problems such as sky-high living costs and what people see as an unfair housing policy favoring the wealthy. The normally efficient and orderly city has seen its transport network besieged and shut down by demonstrators, while protests have shut big-brand stores and popular shopping malls. Three masked activists, who did not give their names, held a news conference on Thursday, their second this week and broadcast on domestic television channels, to criticize what they called arbitrary arrests and police use of tear gas. "The continuation of such attempts at spreading fear and suppressing the freedom of press will eventually backfire on the government itself," one activist told the Citizens' Press Conference, a platform protesters are using to voice concerns over the situation in Hong Kong. "The ultimate victim of these tactics will be the police force's crumbling public image," said the activist, who spoke in English. The comments came after plainclothes police arrested a student leader from Baptist University, Keith Fong, because laser pointers he bought were offensive weapons. On Wednesday night, hundreds of protesters held a rally and shined lasers on the dome of the city's Space Museum in Tsim Sha Tsui, demanding Fong be released, and mocking the police's description of the pointers as "laser guns". Several thousand Hong Kong lawyers, dressed in black, marched in silence on Wednesday to call on the government to safeguard the independence of the city's department of justice. They fear the justice department's prosecutions of arrested protesters are taking on an increasingly political slant. Many of those arrested have been charged with rioting, which carries a 10-year jail term. Protesters have started to use increasingly diverse tactics to evade capture, shifting quickly from place to place and using online platforms such as Telegram to direct thousands of people. They also circulated brightly colored pamphlets online ahead of the airport demonstrations, aiming to help tourists understand events, in which they vowed never to surrender. "Dear travellers, please forgive us for the 'unexpected Hong Kong'. You arrive in a broken, torn-apart city, not the one you have once pictured. Yet the city you imagined is exactly what we are fighting for," the pamphlets said.

More Hong Kong protests planned as US raises travel warning

Police have fired tear gas in Hong Kong as they face off with protesters at multiple locations in the city. Outside the legislative complex, tear gas engulfed protesters, many of whom were holding umbrellas and wearing helmets and gas masks.

Police fire tear gas at multiple protests in HKong

Congress whip in Rajya Sabha resigns to protest party's stand on Article 370. To know more watch the video.

Congress Outfoxed over article 370

A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Friday urged the Trump Administration to suspend future sales of munitions and crowd-control equipment to Hong Kong police which has been accused of using excessive force against anti-government protesters.

A Hong Kong democracy activist, Joshua Wong, this week tweeted pictures of teargas shells and rubber bullets he said were used by police against protesters.

Representatives Christopher Smith and James McGovern, chairs of a congressional human rights commission, made their request in a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross.

"We ask that you suspend future sales of munitions and crowd and riot control equipment to the Hong Kong Police Force and publicly announce that the US&nbsp;will not contribute to the internal repression of peaceful protest in Hong Kong," they wrote.

They also urged the secretaries to push back "against the Hong Kong and Chinese governments` efforts to characterize the demonstrations as `riots` and to blame the US for political instability which they alone created."

The State Department and the Commerce Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

"All these weapons are imported from the United States. Given the innumerable proof of police brutality in recent protests, all countries should call a halt to the sale of arms to the notorious Hong Kong Police," Wong said on Twitter.

Thousands of civil servants joined in the anti-government protests in Hong Kong on Friday for the first time since they started two months ago, defying a warning from the authorities to remain politically neutral.

Protests against a proposed bill that would allow people to be extradited to stand trial in mainland China have grown increasingly violent, with police accused of excessive use of force and failing to protect protesters from suspected gang attacks.&nbsp;

The human rights commission is composed of more than 40 members of the US House of Representatives. Smith is Republican and McGovern a Democrat.

A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Friday urged the Trump Administration to suspend future sales of munitions and crowd-control equipment to Hong Kong police which has been accused of using excessive force against anti-government protesters.

A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Friday urged the Trump Administration to suspend future sales of munitions and crowd-control equipment to Hong Kong police which has been accused of using excessive force against anti-government protesters. A Hong Kong democracy activist, Joshua Wong, this week tweeted pictures of teargas shells and rubber bullets he said were used by police against protesters. Representatives Christopher Smith and James McGovern, chairs of a congressional human rights commission, made their request in a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross. "We ask that you suspend future sales of munitions and crowd and riot control equipment to the Hong Kong Police Force and publicly announce that the US will not contribute to the internal repression of peaceful protest in Hong Kong," they wrote. They also urged the secretaries to push back "against the Hong Kong and Chinese governments` efforts to characterize the demonstrations as `riots` and to blame the US for political instability which they alone created." The State Department and the Commerce Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. "All these weapons are imported from the United States. Given the innumerable proof of police brutality in recent protests, all countries should call a halt to the sale of arms to the notorious Hong Kong Police," Wong said on Twitter. Thousands of civil servants joined in the anti-government protests in Hong Kong on Friday for the first time since they started two months ago, defying a warning from the authorities to remain politically neutral. Protests against a proposed bill that would allow people to be extradited to stand trial in mainland China have grown increasingly violent, with police accused of excessive use of force and failing to protect protesters from suspected gang attacks. The human rights commission is composed of more than 40 members of the US House of Representatives. Smith is Republican and McGovern a Democrat.

Lawmakers urge US to block sales of crowd-control gear to Hong Kong

Sudanese teachers, schoolchildren and parents are beginning to express relief after schools were suspended in the wake of the killing of at least four schoolchildren at a protest in the city of El-Obeid.

School suspension brings relief and worry amongst Sudanese

Hong Kong's economy remained sluggish in the second quarter amid the ongoing US-China trade dispute, government figures released Wednesday showed, as weeks of civil unrest threatened further headwinds in the financial hub.

Beijing and Washington have already imposed duties on more than $360 billion in two-way trade, roiling global financial markets and weighing heavily on manufacturing output in both countries.

The city's economy grew 0.6 per cent in the three months to June, the same rate as the first quarter but down from the 1.2 per cent recorded at the end of last year.

"Overall economic performance was subdued," the government's statistics department said in a statement, blaming a 5.4 per cent drop in exports and "sluggish" domestic demand.

US officials met their Chinese counterparts in Shanghai on Wednesday in an attempt to resolve the yearlong trade dispute, but talks ended earlier than expected without signs of concrete progress.

The financial hub's chief executive Carrie Lam had earlier warned business leaders that subdued growth was forecast to continue through the end of the year as the trade row continued.

There was "no room for optimism for the second quarter and the entire year", Lam said Wednesday, according to a government statement.

Semi-autonomous <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-appear-in-court-to-face-riot-charge-239669">Hong Kong has endured more than seven weeks of protests</a> that began with a government bid to introduce a law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China and have since evolved into a movement for deeper democratic reforms.

Analysts say that the unrest could signal further economic woes in the city.

"Growing discontent with the heavy-handed police response, public backlashes, and the government's seeming inability to address the public's concerns could cause long-lasting damage to business confidence," said Andrew Fennell, director of credit rating agency Fitch.

Hong Kong's economy remained sluggish in the second quarter amid the ongoing US-China trade dispute, government figures released Wednesday showed, as weeks of civil unrest threatened further headwinds in the financial hub.

Hong Kong's economy remained sluggish in the second quarter amid the ongoing US-China trade dispute, government figures released Wednesday showed, as weeks of civil unrest threatened further headwinds in the financial hub. Beijing and Washington have already imposed duties on more than $360 billion in two-way trade, roiling global financial markets and weighing heavily on manufacturing output in both countries. The city's economy grew 0.6 per cent in the three months to June, the same rate as the first quarter but down from the 1.2 per cent recorded at the end of last year. "Overall economic performance was subdued," the government's statistics department said in a statement, blaming a 5.4 per cent drop in exports and "sluggish" domestic demand. US officials met their Chinese counterparts in Shanghai on Wednesday in an attempt to resolve the yearlong trade dispute, but talks ended earlier than expected without signs of concrete progress. The financial hub's chief executive Carrie Lam had earlier warned business leaders that subdued growth was forecast to continue through the end of the year as the trade row continued. There was "no room for optimism for the second quarter and the entire year", Lam said Wednesday, according to a government statement. Semi-autonomous Hong Kong has endured more than seven weeks of protests that began with a government bid to introduce a law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China and have since evolved into a movement for deeper democratic reforms. Analysts say that the unrest could signal further economic woes in the city. "Growing discontent with the heavy-handed police response, public backlashes, and the government's seeming inability to address the public's concerns could cause long-lasting damage to business confidence," said Andrew Fennell, director of credit rating agency Fitch.

Hong Kong growth stalls amid trade war, protests

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

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-unrest-protesters-defy-police-again-begin-banned-march-238981">Riot police in Hong Kong</a> 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.

As the unauthorized protest occurred, the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office -&nbsp;China's top policy unit for the two cities -&nbsp;said in an unusual move that it would hold a press conference Monday afternoon in Beijing.

Hong Kong, a global financial hub, is 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 territory.

Police and protesters had been engaged in a standoff for hours after tens of thousands of demonstrators held a series of unsanctioned marches through the city.

A group of about 200 protesters had made their way towards the Liaison Office 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 pushed the crowds back in some of the most sustained and violent clashes seen during seven weeks of protest.

Specially-trained riot squad members, known as "Raptor" squads, made dozens of arrests, almost all of them young men and women. Several protesters were injured, as well as two journalists.

The clashes ended around 11:30 pm when protesters made a hasty and coordinated retreat into nearby subway stations.&nbsp;

Last week, they had pelted the Liaison Office with eggs and paint.

"Some radical protesters acted violently," threatening the safety of police and the public, the Hong Kong government said in a statement early Monday.

Sunday's violence came a day after police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at protesters holding a banned rally against suspected pro-government triad gangs in a town near the border with mainland China. The gangs had beaten up democracy demonstrators there the previous weekend.

Unprecedented anger

Despite facing unprecedented levels of public anger and frustration that has seen millions take to the streets, the city's pro-Beijing leadership are seemingly unable, or unwilling, to end the chaos.

Beijing's authority in the city of seven million is facing its most serious test since Britain handed it back to China in 1997 under a deal that allowed Hong Kongers to keep liberties including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech.

The demonstrations were triggered by a bill -- now suspended -- that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms.

Watch: Hong Kong protestors march through the city

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protests-protesters-to-march-through-the-city-239032/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Beijing has issued increasingly shrill condemnations in the last two weeks but has left the city's government to deal with the situation.&nbsp;

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

Public anger reached new levels a week ago when a pro-government mob of men wearing white shirts and armed with sticks attacked protesters in Yuen Long, in Hong Kong's rural New Territories where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad gang connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment.

That brazen assault left at least 45 people taken to hospital, and police were heavily criticised for being too slow to respond.

In a rare move, police banned Saturday's rally saying they feared reprisal attacks against villagers from protesters.

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, leading to running battles between officers and protesters.&nbsp;

Police said they responded with "appropriate force" including rubber bullets, while at least four officers were injured.

Police made 13 arrests Saturday and hospital authorities said a total of 24 people were hurt, two seriously.

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.

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. As the unauthorized protest occurred, the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office - China's top policy unit for the two cities - said in an unusual move that it would hold a press conference Monday afternoon in Beijing. Hong Kong, a global financial hub, is 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 territory. Police and protesters had been engaged in a standoff for hours after tens of thousands of demonstrators held a series of unsanctioned marches through the city. A group of about 200 protesters had made their way towards the Liaison Office 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 pushed the crowds back in some of the most sustained and violent clashes seen during seven weeks of protest. Specially-trained riot squad members, known as "Raptor" squads, made dozens of arrests, almost all of them young men and women. Several protesters were injured, as well as two journalists. The clashes ended around 11:30 pm when protesters made a hasty and coordinated retreat into nearby subway stations. Last week, they had pelted the Liaison Office with eggs and paint. "Some radical protesters acted violently," threatening the safety of police and the public, the Hong Kong government said in a statement early Monday. Sunday's violence came a day after police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at protesters holding a banned rally against suspected pro-government triad gangs in a town near the border with mainland China. The gangs had beaten up democracy demonstrators there the previous weekend. Unprecedented anger Despite facing unprecedented levels of public anger and frustration that has seen millions take to the streets, the city's pro-Beijing leadership are seemingly unable, or unwilling, to end the chaos. Beijing's authority in the city of seven million is facing its most serious test since Britain handed it back to China in 1997 under a deal that allowed Hong Kongers to keep liberties including an independent judiciary and freedom of speech. The demonstrations were triggered by a bill -- now suspended -- that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms. Watch: Hong Kong protestors march through the city Beijing has issued increasingly shrill condemnations in the last two weeks but has left the city's government to deal with the situation. 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 Public anger reached new levels a week ago when a pro-government mob of men wearing white shirts and armed with sticks attacked protesters in Yuen Long, in Hong Kong's rural New Territories where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad gang connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment. That brazen assault left at least 45 people taken to hospital, and police were heavily criticised for being too slow to respond. In a rare move, police banned Saturday's rally saying they feared reprisal attacks against villagers from protesters. 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, leading to running battles between officers and protesters. Police said they responded with "appropriate force" including rubber bullets, while at least four officers were injured. Police made 13 arrests Saturday and hospital authorities said a total of 24 people were hurt, two seriously.

Some radical protesters acted violently: Hong Kong police

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was discharged from a Moscow hospital on Monday where he was being treated for an unexplained health problem and returned to prison under guard, Anastasia Vasilyeva, his doctor, said.

Separately, Navalny's lawyer Olga Mikhailova told reporters in front of the hospital that her client had been poisoned by an unidentified chemical agent, a thesis put forward by Vasilyeva a day earlier.

Navalny, 43, was rushed to hospital from jail on Sunday morning with what his spokeswoman said were signs of an acute allergy with "severe swelling of the face and skin redness."

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was discharged from a Moscow hospital on Monday where he was being treated for an unexplained health problem and returned to prison under guard, Anastasia Vasilyeva, his doctor, said.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was discharged from a Moscow hospital on Monday where he was being treated for an unexplained health problem and returned to prison under guard, Anastasia Vasilyeva, his doctor, said. Separately, Navalny's lawyer Olga Mikhailova told reporters in front of the hospital that her client had been poisoned by an unidentified chemical agent, a thesis put forward by Vasilyeva a day earlier. Navalny, 43, was rushed to hospital from jail on Sunday morning with what his spokeswoman said were signs of an acute allergy with "severe swelling of the face and skin redness."

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny discharged from hospital

The head of a Sudanese investigative committee said on Saturday (July 27) that 87 people were killed and 168 wounded security forces broke up a sit-in protest on June 3. Fath al-Rahman Saeed, the head of the committee, said 17 of those killed were in the square occupied by protesters and 48 of the wounded were hit by bullets. Saeed said some members of the security forces fired live ammunition at protesters in Khartoum who were demanding the military cede power. He added three officers violated orders by moving forces into the sit-in. He also said the order was issued to whip protesters. The committee's findings put the death toll higher than the Health Ministry's previous estimate of 61. But opposition medics have said 127 people were killed and 400 people wounded. Reflecting anger at the findings, dozens of protesters chanted slogans against the committee in Khartoum's Burri district and burned tires in the street, witnesses said.

Sudan says 87 killed when troops broke up protest, critics say too low

Hong Kong continues to be on the boil. Hong Kong police today began to use tear gas to disperse thousands of people, who were protesting in the Yuen Long. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong Protest: Protesters defy police ban

A day after the police used tear gas against Hong Kong protesters, Hong Kong continues to be on the boil. Thousands have come out again on to the city streets. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong protests: Protesters to march through the city

Protesters vowed to defy a police ban Saturday and rally against suspected triad gangs who beat up pro-democracy demonstrators last weekend.

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 a station and on a train, 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.&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 demonstrations were triggered by a controversial bill which would have allowed extraditions to mainland China but has evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms.

Saturday's rally will be held where last Sunday's attack took place in Yuen Long, a town in Hong Kong near the Chinese border where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment.&nbsp; &nbsp;

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 have denied.

Police say they have arrested 12 people so far in connection with Sunday's violence, nine of whom have known triad links.

Pokemon and shopping sprees

In a rare move, Hong Kong police banned Saturday's rally saying they feared reprisal attacks against villagers from protesters.

But social messaging channels used to organise the largely leaderless movement have 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;

Others suggested, sarcastically, it could be an occasion to mourn the death on Wednesday of notorious Chinese communist hardliner Li Peng, noting that religious gatherings do not need police permission.

Rumours have swirled that protesters might target the ancestral halls and graves of a village close to the Yuen Long's station where the white shirt mob ran into after their attack and later left without police making any arrests despite a large presence of officers.&nbsp;

Earlier this week the graves of Junius Ho's parents were vandalised. An ardent pro-Beijing lawmaker, Ho was seen shaking hands with the white-shirted men before Sunday's attack. He also threatened a pro-democracy lawmaker in an online video earlier this week.

That lawmaker, Eddie Chu, who also hails from the New Territories, said many villagers abhorred Sunday's attack but were afraid to speak out.&nbsp;

He used Facebook to call on fellow protesters not to target village halls and graves, saying such actions would backfire and unite sympathetic villagers against their protest movement.&nbsp;

Airport protest&nbsp;

Beijing has labelled the protests as "extreme illegal violence", 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 Wednesday China issued a stark reminder that its army could be deployed in Hong Kong if city authorities requested support in maintaining "public order", something local authorities have said they have no intention of doing.

Two days later thousands held a 10-hour protest at the airport arrival hall in a bid to "educate" visitors, particularly mainlanders, about their movement. The protest was peaceful and there was no disruption to flights.&nbsp;&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;

Protesters vowed to defy a police ban Saturday and rally against suspected triad gangs who beat up pro-democracy demonstrators last weekend. 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 a station and on a train, leaving at least 45 people needing hospital treatment.

Protesters vowed to defy a police ban Saturday and rally against suspected triad gangs who beat up pro-democracy demonstrators last weekend. 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 a station and on a train, 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. 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 has evolved into a call for wider democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms. Saturday's rally will be held where last Sunday's attack took place in Yuen Long, a town in Hong Kong near the Chinese border where many of the surrounding villages are known for triad connections and their staunch support for the pro-Beijing establishment. 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 have denied. Police say they have arrested 12 people so far in connection with Sunday's violence, nine of whom have known triad links. Pokemon and shopping sprees In a rare move, Hong Kong police banned Saturday's rally saying they feared reprisal attacks against villagers from protesters. But social messaging channels used to organise the largely leaderless movement have 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. Others suggested, sarcastically, it could be an occasion to mourn the death on Wednesday of notorious Chinese communist hardliner Li Peng, noting that religious gatherings do not need police permission. Rumours have swirled that protesters might target the ancestral halls and graves of a village close to the Yuen Long's station where the white shirt mob ran into after their attack and later left without police making any arrests despite a large presence of officers. Earlier this week the graves of Junius Ho's parents were vandalised. An ardent pro-Beijing lawmaker, Ho was seen shaking hands with the white-shirted men before Sunday's attack. He also threatened a pro-democracy lawmaker in an online video earlier this week. That lawmaker, Eddie Chu, who also hails from the New Territories, said many villagers abhorred Sunday's attack but were afraid to speak out. He used Facebook to call on fellow protesters not to target village halls and graves, saying such actions would backfire and unite sympathetic villagers against their protest movement. Airport protest Beijing has labelled the protests as "extreme illegal violence", 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 Wednesday China issued a stark reminder that its army could be deployed in Hong Kong if city authorities requested support in maintaining "public order", something local authorities have said they have no intention of doing. Two days later thousands held a 10-hour protest at the airport arrival hall in a bid to "educate" visitors, particularly mainlanders, about their movement. 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 braces for 'anti-triad' rally despite police ban

A probe into a deadly June raid on a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-says-87-killed-when-security-forces-broke-up-protest-in-june-238850">Khartoum protest camp </a>revealed Saturday that a feared Sudanese paramilitary group was involved in the crackdown that killed scores and sparked international outrage.

Shortly before dawn on June 3, gunmen in military fatigues raided the site of a weeks-long sit-on outside army headquarters, shooting and beating protesters in an operation that also left hundreds wounded.

Demonstrators and rights groups had accused the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces of carrying out the crackdown, a charge denied by the group's powerful chief, General Mohamed Hamdan Daglo.

But a joint probe by prosecutors and the ruling military council revealed on Saturday that RSF paramilitaries were involved in the raid.

Crowds of protesters had camped out at the site from April 6 onwards, initially to seek the army's support in toppling longtime leader Omar al-Bashir.

Bashir was ousted on April 11, but protesters pressed on with the sit-in, demanding that the military council which replaced him cede power to civilians.

Fatah al-Rahman Saeed, a prosecutor who headed the investigation, said orders had been given to security forces to clear an area called Colombia, near the protest camp.

But, he said, an RSF general had separate ordered a colonel to disperse the sit-in, despite having no such order from further up the chain of command.

"They led the forces... inside the sit-in area and ordered them to get down from their vehicles and whip the protesters," Saeed told reporters.

Saeed identified the RSF general who allegedly ordered the raid by his initials A.S.A., and the colonel as A.A.M.

"It is clear to the committee that General A.S.A issued an order to Colonel A.A.M to deploy anti-riot forces of the RSF" to break up the sit-in, Saeed said.

- 'Forces disobeyed orders' -

The country's ruling generals have insisted they did not order the dispersal of the protest camp, but had ordered an operation including RSF and other security forces limited to clearing Colombia, citing drug dealing and violence in the area.

"The area had become a security threat which forced the authorities to take proper measures to clear it," Saeed said on Saturday.

Saeed said an RSF captain, identified as H.B.A, was involved in clearing Colombia but later took part in dispersing the sit-in.

He said another group of security personnel who were also involved in clearing Colombia "disobeyed orders and entered the sit-in area".

They "removed barricades, fired tear gas and fired intense and random bullets that led to the killing and wounding of protesters and the burning of tents," Saeed said.

Days after the raid, rights group Amnesty International said that members of "RSF are responsible for... the ongoing bloody crackdown on protesters in Khartoum since 3 June".

"The RSF swept into protest sites and opened fire on unarmed people," it said.

Doctors linked to the protest movement say 127 people were killed during the raid.

Authorities have given several tolls, all of them much lower.

- Pending issues -

The sit-in raid caused the collapse of talks between protest leaders and Sudan's ruling generals, which did not resume until weeks later, after intense mediaton by African Union and Ethiopian diplomats.

The two sides have now agreed to form a joint civilian-military ruling body for a transitional period of 39 months.

This governing body would then install an overall civilian administration as demanded by demonstrators, who still insist on a separate independent investigation into the June 3 raid.

Although the generals and protest leaders have signed a power sharing deal, several issues are still pending -- including justice for demonstrators killed since the first December protests against Bashir.

A probe into a deadly June raid on a Khartoum protest camp revealed Saturday that a feared Sudanese paramilitary group was involved in the crackdown that killed scores and sparked international outrage.

A probe into a deadly June raid on a Khartoum protest camp revealed Saturday that a feared Sudanese paramilitary group was involved in the crackdown that killed scores and sparked international outrage. Shortly before dawn on June 3, gunmen in military fatigues raided the site of a weeks-long sit-on outside army headquarters, shooting and beating protesters in an operation that also left hundreds wounded. Demonstrators and rights groups had accused the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces of carrying out the crackdown, a charge denied by the group's powerful chief, General Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. But a joint probe by prosecutors and the ruling military council revealed on Saturday that RSF paramilitaries were involved in the raid. Crowds of protesters had camped out at the site from April 6 onwards, initially to seek the army's support in toppling longtime leader Omar al-Bashir. Bashir was ousted on April 11, but protesters pressed on with the sit-in, demanding that the military council which replaced him cede power to civilians. Fatah al-Rahman Saeed, a prosecutor who headed the investigation, said orders had been given to security forces to clear an area called Colombia, near the protest camp. But, he said, an RSF general had separate ordered a colonel to disperse the sit-in, despite having no such order from further up the chain of command. "They led the forces... inside the sit-in area and ordered them to get down from their vehicles and whip the protesters," Saeed told reporters. Saeed identified the RSF general who allegedly ordered the raid by his initials A.S.A., and the colonel as A.A.M. "It is clear to the committee that General A.S.A issued an order to Colonel A.A.M to deploy anti-riot forces of the RSF" to break up the sit-in, Saeed said. - 'Forces disobeyed orders' - The country's ruling generals have insisted they did not order the dispersal of the protest camp, but had ordered an operation including RSF and other security forces limited to clearing Colombia, citing drug dealing and violence in the area. "The area had become a security threat which forced the authorities to take proper measures to clear it," Saeed said on Saturday. Saeed said an RSF captain, identified as H.B.A, was involved in clearing Colombia but later took part in dispersing the sit-in. He said another group of security personnel who were also involved in clearing Colombia "disobeyed orders and entered the sit-in area". They "removed barricades, fired tear gas and fired intense and random bullets that led to the killing and wounding of protesters and the burning of tents," Saeed said. Days after the raid, rights group Amnesty International said that members of "RSF are responsible for... the ongoing bloody crackdown on protesters in Khartoum since 3 June". "The RSF swept into protest sites and opened fire on unarmed people," it said. Doctors linked to the protest movement say 127 people were killed during the raid. Authorities have given several tolls, all of them much lower. - Pending issues - The sit-in raid caused the collapse of talks between protest leaders and Sudan's ruling generals, which did not resume until weeks later, after intense mediaton by African Union and Ethiopian diplomats. The two sides have now agreed to form a joint civilian-military ruling body for a transitional period of 39 months. This governing body would then install an overall civilian administration as demanded by demonstrators, who still insist on a separate independent investigation into the June 3 raid. Although the generals and protest leaders have signed a power sharing deal, several issues are still pending -- including justice for demonstrators killed since the first December protests against Bashir.

Sudan probe shows paramilitaries involved in deadly raid on sit-in

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