Hong Kong’s pro-democracy protests have spread to Causeway Bay and Mong Kok.
Katy Lee just Tweeted this photo of protesters blocking Nathan Road in Mong Kok:
Time reporter David Stout has also posted photos of Causeway Bay filling up with protestors and police fanning out in response.
Police are using tear gas at all locations.
So far, at least 78 protesters have been arrested on charges of “forcible entry into government premises, unlawful assembly, disorderly conduct in public place, assaulting public officers and obstructing police officers in due execution of duties”.
In an official statement, the Non-official Members of ExCo “expressed regret over the chaos caused by the ‘Occupy Central’ movement. Members understand the need for and support the Police’s resolute enforcement in restoring public order as soon as possible so as to avoid disruption of normal activities tomorrow such as going to work.
“The ExCo Non-official Members call on members of the public not to participate in any illegal activities. Public should express their views in a rational and peaceful manner.”
The area around the government offices are currently in lockdown, including Tim Wa Avenue, Lung Wo Road and Harcourt Road, the junction between Tim Mei Avenue and Harcourt Road, and the junction between Legislative Council Road and Lung Wo Road.
Members of the public are not allowed to enter the area and may be arrested if trying to force barricades “in order to restore public order”.
The government also earlier denied circulating rumours that PLA vehicles had been deployed, saying it has “no intention” of seeking help from the PLA.
