Hong Kong: Explosives seized by police ahead of weekend of protests

Police in Hong Kong discovered a stash of powerful homemade explosives as the city prepared for another major pro-democracy protest on Sunday, and counter-demonstrators rallied on Saturday.To get more breaking news china, you can visit shine news official website.

Police said they found about 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) of TATP and arrested a man in a raid on a commercial building late Friday night.TATP, or tri-acetone tri-peroxide, has been used in terrorist attacks worldwide.

The finding comes as tension between pro-democracy activists, counter-demonstrators and police forces continues to escalate over the controversial “extradition bill” in Hong Kong, but a police spokesperson said no link has been established and the investigation is ongoing.

In recent weeks, millions have taken to the streets to protest against the bill, which would have allowed people in Hong Kong to face trial in mainland China. Tens of thousands filled one of the city’s parks on Saturday to express support for police forces, who have been accused of using rough tactics on protesters, ahead of another pro-democracy march scheduled for Sunday.

“We are experiencing the most serious revolution after Hong Kong's handover," said former Legislative Council president, Jasper Tsang.“We are also experiencing the most serious challenge for ‘One Country, Two Systems’,” he added, referring to the system under which Hong Kong is governed since its handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997.

Under the system, Hong Kong was allowed to retain for 50 years extensive freedoms not enjoyed in China, including an independent judiciary and the right to protest.

Protesters were mostly middle-aged older people dressed in white – in contrast with anti-extradition bill protesters, who usually wear black and don protective gear against police pepper spray and batons.

They gathered in the city’s Tamar Park, next to the Legislative Council which protesters stormed and raided on 1 July, and chanted “Support Hong Kong Police” and “Hong Kong Cheer Up”.Some waved Chinese flags, and a giant screen behind the stage for speakers read “Safeguard Hong Kong.”

Tsol Pui, 85, president of Hong Kong Veterans’ Home, said: “Violence is intolerant. We are distressed about our home and we should absolutely stand out to support Hong Kong police, to maintain stability and rule of law in society.”

Tang King Shing, Hong Kong’s former Commissioner of Police, said: “Police, we support you. You should not have suffered from the disaster made by those thugs... We Hong Kong people come out to safeguard Hong Kong.”

Organizers said 316,000 people took part in the demonstration, while police put the turnout at 103,000.