Van Torched As Protests Continue Across Hong Kong

Protests have continued into the night across Hong Kong following one of the worst days of violence since the anti-extradition movement began five months ago.

In a marked escalation, an empty van was turned on its side in Tong Ming Street in Tseung Kwan O and used as a roadblock, before being set alight.

Protesters also gathered near Sheung Tak Estate, and a shuttered MTR exit was vandalised and firebombed.

In Mong Kok, protesters engaged in running battles with riot police along Nathan Road and Argyle Street. Huge fires were set on the usually-busy thoroughfares, and police responded with more tear gas and by deploying their water cannon truck.

On Nathan Road, a man who people suspected of taking photos of protesters, was set upon by a mob and viciously beaten. He was seen bleeding profusely before police arrived on the scene and first-aiders were able to tend to his wounds.

The protesters also set up barricades using bamboo scaffolding, debris and their trademark umbrellas. Bricks were strewn about the road, in an attempt to disrupt traffic and police.

In Tai Po, protesters also set up barricades and then set them alight before firefighters arrived on the scene.

And in Hung Hom, there were reports of the bomb squad going to Whampoa Garden.

On Hong Kong island, the police were able to clear Hennessy Road relatively quickly, by firing tear gas canisters at the protesters gathered near the Sogo department store. By midnight, the trouble had died down there.