Hong Kong protests continue despite downpour

HONG KONG, China

Thousands of people gathered in Hong Kong on Sunday to protest against a proposed extradition law.

Protesters who were mobilized through internet marched from Kwai Chung to Tsuen Wan Park despite downpour.

The autonomous region, which is under China’s control since 1997, is witnessing protests since early June against the local government’s move to legalize extradition to mainland China, Macao and Taiwan.

Protesters chanting slogans "Free Hong Kong” rallied against the Beijing administration, which they accused of intervening in Hong Kong's autonomy.

The police have intervened even in peaceful demonstrations, a college student, Billy, told Anadolu Agency.

Alex Chan, another college student, said that they have organized the protests "to protect their future".

Security forces erected giant barriers and iron bars around the police station to prevent angry crowds from entering the premises on Saturday.

Police also used tear gas against the protesters gathered near the Ngau Tau Kok police station during yesterday's demonstrations.

Rising Tensions

In late July, China had warned that it may deploy armed forces to the region to quell the anti-government demonstrations.

The bill was brought before the Hong Kong parliament on April 3, but failed due to the decision for additional revisions.

Protestors were concerned that Beijing would use the bill to extradite political opponents.

They currently demand the complete cancellation of the bill.

The protests have been observed to include from 100,000 to 1 million people -- one seventh of Hong Kong’s total population of 7.4 million.

* Writing by Zehra Nur Duz