Scuffles broke out in the morning on Tuesday (October 1) as Hong Kong went into lockdown on the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. Authority in the Chinese-ruled city that has been wracked by nearly four months of often violent anti-government
protests hoped to ensure anti-government protests do not overshadow Chinese President Xi Jinping's commemorations on national day celebration in Beijing. Protesters have pledged to seize on the holiday to propel their calls for greater democracy onto the international stage, hijacking an occasion
Beijing sees as an opportunity to showcase China's economic progress to the world. Rail operator MTR Corp closed some flash-point metro stations, while several large shopping malls announced they would close, hoping to avoid damage in any clashes. The government of embattled Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam has already cancelled the annual October 1 fireworks display over the city's iconic Victoria Harbour, citing public safety concerns.