Hong Kong police fire volleys of tear gas at protesters

HONG KONG (AP) — Hong Kong police fired volleys of tear gas in a popular shopping district as hundreds took to streets to march against China’s proposed tough national security legislation for city.

Pro-democracy supporters in Hong Kong have sharply criticized China’s proposal to enact a national security law that would ban secessionist and subversive activity, as well as foreign interference and terrorism in semi-automous territory. Critics say it goes against “one country, two systems” framework that promises city freedoms t found on mainland.

On Sunday afteron, crowds of protesters dressed in black gared in Causeway Bay, a popular shopping district, to protest proposed legislation. Protesters chanted slogans “Stand with Hong Kong,” “Liberate Hong Kong” and “Revolution of our times.”

Activitist Tam Tak-chi was arrested during protests for what police said was an unauthorized assembly. Tam said he was giving a “health talk” and was exempt from social-distancing measures that prohibit garings of more than eight people.