Rival protesters face off in Hong Kong

NOTE: AUDIO QUALITY AS INCOMING

A tug of war between rival protesters in a gritty district of Hong Kong.

Pro-democracy protesters rallied next to government supporters -- angry over the barracades set up in Mong Kok.

Some protesters chanted "call the police!" though the police presence was thin.

After a tense night which resulted in 19 arrests, many people are frustrated with security forces, accusing them of cooperating with criminal gangs during the protests.

Police say they're standing by their mandate.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) CHEUNG TAK-KEUNG, ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, SAYING:

"We strongly condemn all violent acts. Any violent acts to damage the public order or damage safety are not accepted. It's not to be tolerated by the general public and police."

Over the past week, tens of thousands of demonstrators have occupied Hong Kong streets, demanding full democracy... including a free voting system when they go to choose a new lead