Hundreds arrested as Indonesians protest against new bill (Update)

Police launch tear gas during clashes with protesters trying to advance towards the Presidential Palace during a rally in Jakarta, Indonesia, on Oct. 8, 2020. - AP

JAKARTA (AFP): Hundreds of people were arrested in Jakarta Thursday (Oct 8) as tens of thousands protested across Indonesia for a third day against a controversial new law that critics say will harm labour rights and the environment.

Thousands of security personnel were deployed to block access to the capital and prevent workers and students from demonstrating in front of the presidential palace and parliament.