Police Say 'unknown' Fluid Hurled At Officers

Police said 13 officers required hospital treatment after clashes with protesters early on Monday, adding that some complained of difficulty breathing and redness on their skin after being hit by objects containing "unknown liquids". Police sources said they suspected the liquid might be drain cleaner.

Online photos also showed protesters with injuries, but there were no details.

At about 7.20am officers wearing helmets and shields attempted to clear barriers blocking Fenwick Pier Street, while demonstrators with umbrellas tried to stop them and objects appeared to be thrown. Officers used batons and pepper spray to push the protesters back.

Police are also warning the public to stay away from Wanchai and Admiralty for the moment, although the MTR said its trains were now stopping at Wanchai and Admiralty stations after early bypassing them at the request of police.

Protesters remain in Admiralty after an earlier standoff with police, and tensions remain high ahead of the annual July 1 protest march.

One protester, who's been staying in the area around Legco since Sunday night, told RTHK that he doesn't believe the Chief Executive's pledges at the ceremony celebrating the handover's anniversary in which she promised a more inclusive government and said she'd listen to the public, particularly younger people.

The protester, who identified himself as "Mr Chan", said the CE has made similar pledges before but has never acted on them. He says Mrs Lam must step down, adding that she has not listened to young people's views.

Meanwhile, the Security Secretary, John Lee, called on protesters not to inconvenience the broader public.

Lee said the protesters had the right to free speech and to hold demonstrations, but should do so peacefully and should care about other people's rights.

A massive turnout is expected at the annual July 1 march organised by the Civil Human Rights Front on Monday afternoon.

Last updated: 2019-07-01 HKT 12:54