Police said they arrested activists at a sit-in protest last night after a Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) officer was beaten up.

Dang Wangi police chief Zainol Samah told a press conference today the police officers proceeded to arrest six protesters, including two state assemblypersons, after witnessing the incident.

However, Kita Lawan activists in a statement today accused the police of lying.

"The Kita Lawan secretariat denies the wild allegation that our youths at the peaceful sit-in protest at Dataran Merdeka had acted violently against DBKL enforcers.

" Video recording by eye-witnesses clearly show that police used force and acted violently, including beating up the protesters and grabbing them roughly," it said.

The six arrested are Simpang Pulai assemblyperson Tan Kar Hing, Teja assemblyperson Chang Lih Kang and activists Michael Tamil AL, Gan Zhi Mou, Chee Chu Sang, and Yong Ming Chong.

The Kita Lawan secretariat said Chee had to receive treatment at a hospital before he was sent to the police lock-up.

According to Zainol's version of the event, some five to 10 DBKL officers were taking down a banner calling for the sacking of Inspector-General of Police Khalid Abu Bakar when they were confronted.

“The DBKL officers were prevented from doing so and one of them was beaten up by the protesters until the officer had injuries on his face, nose and hand,” he said.

The 45-year-old officer’s uniform was also torn off in the melee.

Those arrested were taken to the Jinjang police station.

'Don't take part in tomorrow's Kita Lawan'

They are being investigated under Section 186 of the Penal Code for obstructing a public servant in discharge of functions as well as Section 353 for using criminal force to deter a public servant from discharging his duty.

If convicted, they can be imprisoned for two years, or fined, or both.

Meanwhile, Zainol also cautioned people from taking part in tomorrow's Kita Lawan rally.

“I urge everyone not to participate in this rally. This is because the rally is against the law, with no notice having been submitted to the police.

“This rally will affect the flow of traffic and people will be trapped in jams,” he added.

The rally tomorrow will coincide with the wedding reception of Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak's daughter, which will take place across town at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).