Hong Kong's Secretary for Security Ambrose Lee said Saturday evening that Hong Kong's force is determined, and has ability to restore order with no need to seek help from the People's Liberation Army.
Speaking at a press conference when the clashes between the anti-WTO protesters and the police are still going on, Lee said 41 people were injured in the clashes, including five police officers.
Around 900 people were detained, but they had not been formally arrested, Lee said, adding that everything will be done in accordance with law.
He condemned the anti-WTO protesters for resorting to non-peaceful means to express their views and warned that the police will take robust action to dispel this kind of illegal act and violence.
According to the latest news from the press center of the Sixth Ministry Conference, 54 people have been injured in the clashes so far and admitted to hospital, 51 of whom have been discharged. Among the three staying at hospital, two are in serious condition.
Anti-globalization protesters started clashes with the police in streets leading to the Convention Center in the heart of Wanchai district at five o'clock in the afternoon. Police blocked off several routes leading to the venue of the World Trade Organization talks in an attempt to block demonstrators. Tear gas was reportedly used in one clash on Fleming Road.