Hong Kong police fire tear gas on biggest protests since COVID curbs

Anthony WALLACE / AFP

Hong Kong police fired tear gas and deployed water cannon as hundreds turned up to reject Beijing's plans to impose a new security law on the territory.

Crowds thronged the shopping district of Causeway Bay for the biggest demonstration in the city since COVID-19 lockdowns began.

Riot police used loudspeakers to order anti-government protestors to disperse, calling the gathering unlawful and disregarding coronavirus social distancing restrictions.

The proposed national security law, which is due for a second reading in the city's lawmaking body on Wednesday, has sparked calls for more people to take to the streets.

More from International