The silent majority in Hong Kong began to voice objections to violence on Thursday after the community was appalled to see escalating violence at the city's airport.

During Tuesday's unlawful sit-in at the airport, two men from the Chinese mainland were unlawfully beaten, abused by black-clad protesters and hundreds of flights were cancelled owing to violence and the sit-in.

Several local newspapers published joint statements by Hong Kong residents on their front pages, urging the city to return to peace and order as soon as possible.

Another group of 16 celebrities, including famous actress Liza Wong Ming-chuen from the culture sector, made a similar statement.