HONG KONG, April 30: The Olympic torch returned to Chinese soil Wednesday after a turbulent 20-nation tour, landing in the bustling financial capital of Hong Kong, where officials deported at least seven protesters before the flame’s arrival.

The flame was driven away to a welcoming ceremony at a cultural centre after being greeted at the airport, where it arrived from Vietnam, by a marching band and flag-waving children in red and white tracksuits.

There are plans for about 3,000 police personnel guarding the torch Friday during its relay through this former British colony, which returned to Chinese rule 11 years ago.

The relay is a high-stakes event for the local government because it follows a global tour marred by protests against Beijing’s human rights record and its recent crackdown on protests in Tibet.

Even before the torch arrived, authorities were busy deporting at least seven protesters who were considered a threat to the relay.—AP