Hundreds of protesters storm Hong Kong’s government headquarters
Protesters in Hong Kong today stormed the Legislative Council on the anniversary of the city’s 1997 return to Chinese rule amid a backlash against laws that would allow extradition to China.
A small group of protesters smashed their way through the glass doors to enter the government building.
Others pulled up a steel shutter, letting hundreds access the building which is at the heart of the city’s government.
Riot police fired pepper spray and used their batons in clashes with protesters on the streets surrounding the building.
There have been widespread protests in the city over a controversial proposed bill that would have enabled Hong Kong to extradite people to mainland China to stand trial.
Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has agreed to suspend the bill indefinitely but protests have continued regardless.
Today is the anniversary of Hong Kong’s handover to China by the UK in 1997.
At the flag ceremony marking the handover today, Lam said it was important she listen to Hong Kong citizens more closely.
“I will learn the lesson and ensure that the government’s future work will be closer and more responsive to the aspirations, sentiments and opinions of the community,” she said.
More than 1m people have openly protested against Beijing-backed leader Lam over the last three weeks.
Critics of the bill see it as a threat to Hong Kong’s own rule of law.