Pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong clashed with police Sunday night, resulting in the arrest of 40 protesters.
It was likely the most violent night since the demonstration began two months ago, The Guardian reports. Police used batons against the protesters as well as a pepper spray that activists say was six times stronger than tear gas, with some chemicals also found in pesticide.
By Monday morning, police had reclaimed the area in the Admiralty district occupied by the protesters and removed pro-democracy banners. About 500 demonstrators remained, with some yelling insults at the police standing in full riot gear, The Guardian reports.
The protesters are calling for the resignation of the city's chief executive, Leung Chun-ying, and open nominations for the election of his successor.