Tear gas, water cannon fired as Hong Kong protesters throw petrol bombs

SINGAPORE: Thousands of protesters gathered at Admiralty in Hong Kong on Saturday (Sep 28) evening, chanting anti-government slogans and blocking roads in the area.

Police officers positioned at the entrance of the Central Government Complex have used tear gas to disperse the crowds of people trying to get into the Legislative Council building.

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"At around 7.30pm, a large group of protesters are blocking the carriageways in Harcourt Road, seriously paralysing the traffic," Hong Kong police said.

"Some violent protesters have damaged properties outside Central Government Complex and aimed laser beams at a helicopter, posing a serious threat to the safety of everyone at scene.

"Police warn the protesters to stop all illegal acts at once. Police appeal to members of the public to avoid travelling to the area."

READ: Hong Kong protesters rebuild Lennon Walls ahead of China National Day

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At 9pm, a Hong Kong government spokesman said the community will need to "engage in dialogue".

"Universal suffrage of 'one person, one vote' for selecting the Chief Executive and electing all members of the Legislative Council is enshrined as an ultimate aim in the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) of the People's Republic of China," the spokesman added.

"To achieve this aim, the community needs to engage in dialogues, premised on the legal basis and under a peaceful atmosphere with mutual trust, with a view to narrowing differences and attaining a consensus agreeable to all sides."

Families gathered at Tamar Park on Saturday evening, in front of central government offices and the Legislative Council, both of which have come under attack for more than three months, sparking violent street battles with police.

“Its a special day for Hong Kong protesters. We will stick together to fight for freedom," said Sam, 33, dressed in black and wearing a mask. “Most people think Hong Kong was dying after five yeaRead More – Source