Monday, 23 July, 2001, 01:13 GMT 02:13 UK

Police in Beijing have broken up a small demonstration by members of the Falun Gong spiritual movement in Tiananmen Square.

Eyewitnesses say a number of protesters were arrested on Sunday after they unfurled banners.

There was a heavy security presence in the square, in anticipation of attempts by Falun Gong followers to mark the second anniversary of the banning of the movement.

Human rights groups say thousands of Falun Gong members are held in jails or labour camps.

The movement is based on [] traditional Chinese meditation and exercises.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service

http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/world/asia-pacific/newsid_1451000/1451141.stm