Hong Kong airport occupied by hundreds of protesters amid tightened security
- Thousands expected to join peaceful sit-in against the extradition bill, which could last until Sunday
- More ID and ticket checks introduced on Friday with a public area closed off to non-travellers
Hundreds of people have joined a mass sit-in at Hong Kong International Airport on Friday in a fresh round of anti-government protests designed to secure international backing for the movement.
Organisers were expecting thousands to show up, and hoped police would respect what they said would be a peaceful protest that was initially billed to last until Sunday.
Ahead of the demonstration, the airport had increased security that led to passengers experiencing delays in reaching departure gates, as airlines warned travellers to arrive early for their flights.
The five demands include a full withdrawal of the draft legislation, implementation of universal suffrage and a retraction of the riot label attached to recent anti-bill protests.
One man with posters stuck to his body, written in Japanese and English, was handing out stickers saying “stand with Hong Kong”.
“We don’t really have an estimate but we expect thousands to turn up,” said the organiser of the sit-in, who gave his surname as Lee.