Hong Kong protests: Petrol bombs and water cannon used in clashes

2019-09-15 12:31:29

Police in Hong Kong have used water cannon and tear gas against protesters throwing petrol bombs and bricks near government offices in the city. The violence broke out after thousands of pro-democracy demonstrators marched in defiance of a police ban. Earlier hundreds rallied outside the British Consulate, demanding the UK press China to maintain freedoms guaranteed during the 1997 handover. Months of unrest were sparked by a now-scrapped extradition bill. It would have made it possible for people in Hong Kong to be extradited to mainland China, where critics say they could face human rights abuses. Earlier this month the bill was finally withdrawn - but protesters continue to call for full democracy and an investigation into allegations of police brutality.