Police in Copenhagen have used tear gas to disperse a protest march heading for the climate conference venue this Wednesday morning. More than 160 of the protesters have already been arrested. The organiser of the march has called on demonstrators not to resort to violence, but it is feared the situation could get out of control.

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Thousands of demonstrators outside the conference centre are reported to be planning to breach barricades and hold a citizens' forum inside or around the centre. Meanwhile, a call has gone out from the organisers for conference delegates and NGOs to make a statement by leaving the conference hall at 12 midday, today.
 
The Copenhagen authorities have imposed strict security measures, with buses and cars being stopped on roads leading to the conference venue and pedestrians checked for weapons and other dangerous objects.