this is the instant a BBC journalist shouts ‘call the consulate now’ to a friend as he is dragged away by way of police in Shanghai.

Edward Lawrence, a camera operator for the BBC’s China Bureau, was once beaten and kicked by officials whilst overlaying the anti-govt demonstration last evening.

Protesters have taken to the streets in at least seven towns throughout China, challenging an finish to President Xi Jinping’s rule and his strict Covid regulations.

Stunning photos from Shanghai – the epicentre of the demonstrations – presentations Mr Lawrence at the floor as officials aggressively pull his fingers in the back of his again.

He’s then bundled away by the masked police officers, however he manages to shout in desperation to alert the British Consulate in the city.

The BBC issued a press release saying they were ‘extremely involved’ approximately Mr Lawrence’s treatment, but China has now claimed he didn’t establish himself as a journalist.

‘He was held for a few hours ahead of being launched,’ a BBC spokesperson said. ‘All Through his arrest, he used to be crushed and kicked by way of the police.

‘Whilst the incident happened, legislation enforcement team of workers persuaded people on the website to leave, and whilst positive other people did not cooperate they have been taken clear of the scene.’

He delivered: ‘China has always welcomed overseas journalists to behavior reporting activities in line with legislation and rules and has equipped a great deal of assistance.

‘Meanwhile, international reporters will have to consciously abide via Chinese Language legislation and laws while accomplishing reporting activities in China.’

Photos presentations Edward Lawrence being dragged away by means of Chinese Language police as he coated the protests in Shanghai

Edward Lawrence turns to shout ‘call the consulate’ to his friend

Overseas Secretary James Cleverly known as Mr Lawrence’s arrest ‘deeply aggravating’.

He said: ‘Media freedom and freedom to protest need to be revered.