Shawdesh Desk:

A government ban on masks has resulted in thousands of anti-government protesters marching in Hong Kong despite the pouring rain, spurred into action.

Rioting broke out in some places, with new attacks on businesses. Police fired tear gas and used truncheons.

Many protesters covered their faces in defiance of the ban, upheld by the High Court on Sunday. Masks are a new focus in months of pro-democracy protests.

Metro services were attacked on Friday but have partially resumed.

Police use of live bullets against protesters this week, leaving two people injured, has also fuelled the unrest.

Chief executive Carrie Lam introduced the ban by invoking powers dating back to colonial rule by the British.

Many protesters wore Guy Fawkes masks. Photo: EPA

Demonstrators fear that democratic rights are being eroded in the semi-autonomous territory under Chinese rule.

What happened on Sunday?

Protesters blocking roads in the Wan Chai, Admiralty, Sham Shui Po and Prince Edward areas hurled petrol bombs and again vandalised shops they believe have links to mainland China, the South China Morning Post reports.

Rioters also smashed their way into local government offices in the Cheung Sha Wan area.

Water cannon could be seen being setting up as police tackled rioters, making arrests.

Many more people turned out for the new marches than on Saturday, when a small march was held in the aftermath of Friday’s rioting.

Shops closed early or did not open at all in anticipation of trouble.