Hong Kong democracy activists defy police in standoff

They demand Beijing grant genuine democratic reforms for the former British colony

Hundreds of Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters were locked in a tense standoff with police who warned today they would crack down on a mass sit-in outside government headquarters to demand Beijing grant genuine democratic reforms for the former British colony.

Students and activists have been camped out on the streets outside the government complex all weekend. Students started the rally but by early today leaders of the broader Occupy Central civil movement said they were joining them to kickstart a long-threatened mass sit-in.

Demonstrators barricaded themselves inside the protest zone using metal crowd control barriers originally brought in by authorities. They donned protective gear in case police use pepper spray, wrapping their faces and arms with plastic wrap and wearing cheap plastic raincoats, goggles and surgical masks.

The protesters reject Beijing's recent decision to restrict voting reforms for the first-ever elections to choose the city's leader in 2017.

Police warned those involved in what they call an illegal gathering to leave the scene as soon possible or else they would start clearing the area and making arrests.

Police said they have arrested 78 people since demonstrations started late Friday. They warned people to stay away for their own safety.

Organisers said police took away several pro-democracy legislators.

Among the protesters was media magnate Jimmy Lai, who owns the popular Apple Daily, Hong Kong's sole pro-democracy newspaper.