Hong Kong police made another charge at the main pro-democracy camp near the government center on Monday.  Sunday night, saw violent clashes between demonstrators and police.  Several people were injured including four police officers, and at least 45 people have been arrested.

“I’m more determined than ever, because the police are abusing their power,” said student protester Kelvin Lau.  “This is a long-awaited escalation of action.  It should have happened ages ago.”

The cops charged with batons and pepper spray as thousands of pro-democracy demonstrators defied ordered to retreat and attempted to encircle government headquarters.  Two of the main student factions leading the protests called for an escalation of tactics, in response to last week’s clearing of another protest camp in the Mong Kok shopping district. 

“(We) want true democracy!” protesters yelled.  “Surround the headquarters.  Paralyze the government.”

The government hasn’t budged on the protesters’ demand to allow fully free elections for Hong Kong chief executive in 2017 – only those vetted and approved by a loyalist committee appointed by central government will be allowed to on the ballot.