Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


In Hong Kong, Thousands Pledge to 'Keep Fighting' as March Turns Ugly

Reuters

   HONG KONG - A peaceful march drawing tens of thousands of
   anti-government protesters on New Year's Day spiraled into chaotic
   scenes as police fired several rounds of tear gas at crowds including
   families and some protesters threw several petrol bombs.

   The violence broke out during a largely peaceful march as masses of
   regular citizens pressed authorities for further concessions in the
   Chinese-ruled city.

   In the Wanchai bar district, some protesters had spray-painted graffiti
   and smashed cash machines in an HSBC bank branch when plainclothes
   police moved in, pepper-spraying crowds in a tense face-off, after
   which several rounds of tear gas were fired.

   The protesters, many masked and clad in black, regrouped and formed
   their own line, hurling several petrol bombs and unfurling umbrellas.

.