Photos broadcast live on Facebook show how a police officer tries to arrest a person, then another demonstrator rushes forward and is then hit by at least one shot. Another demonstrator fell to the ground after shots were heard.

Police have reported that sharp ammunition has been used and that a person has been hit. Three people were taken to hospital after the incident. One of them is shot dead, the health authority reports.

The protests have been going on for months

This is the third time the police have used sharp ammunition in the 24 weeks that the protests have been going on.

The protesters, who initially wanted to stop a bill to allow extradition of suspected criminals, also demand increased democracy and independence from mainland China.

Last Friday, a student died after clashes with police last weekend.