Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters out in force

Tens of thousands of protesters are marching in Hong Kong.

For the first time since August, police have allowed a rally by the Civil Human Rights Front, one of the territory’s largest pro-democracy groups.

Police said 11 people were arrested ahead of the rally in raids and that a handgun was seized.

The protests started in June over a controversial extradition bill, and have now evolved into broader anti-government demonstrations.

“I will fight for freedom until I die,” said June, a 40-year-old mother.

In a statement on Saturday, the government called for calm and said it had “learned its lesson and will humbly listen to and accept criticism”.

Anti-government protests have now gripped the semi-autonomous Chinese territory for more than six months.

Clashes have become increasingly violent in recent months, raising the question of how the unrest can be stopped.

Police said a Glock semi-automatic pistol and 105 bullets were discovered during raids along with a haul of knives and firecrackers. It was said to be the first time that a handgun was found since the protests began.

Media playback is unsupported on your device