Anti-govt protesters throng city streets in Hong kong

In Hong Kong, anti-government protesters thronged city streets yesterday in a forceful display of support for the movement on its six-month anniversary. Tens of thousands snaked their way through the financial hub's main island after the police for the first time allowed a rally by the Civil Human Rights Front, one of the largest pro-democracy groups.

Police said 11 people were arrested in raids ahead of the rally and that a handgun was seized. The protests started



in June over a controversial extradition bill, and have now evolved into broader anti-government demonstrations. The rally comes two weeks after pro-establishment parties got a drubbing in local elections, shattering government claims that a silent majority opposed the protests.

The movement's demands include an independent inquiry into the police's handling of the protests, an amnesty for those arrested, and free elections.