It said leaders of the rival Bersih reform group and the Red Shirt movement were seen separately trying to negotiate with police to reopen Jalan Travers and Jalan Parlimen.

The police were seen not acceding to their demands, following which a large section of supporters from both sides were later seen looking for alternative routes.

Police also took action to settle minor squabbles between the two groups, the report said.

There was a commotion at Padang Merbok, where the Red Shirts had gathered, when supporters chased after two people in yellow t-shirts in the area. Quick action by police calmed the situation and the two were brought out of the area safely.

Earlier in the day, police also directed petty traders in Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman to stop operating after assembly participants started to gather in the area.

The situation on the overall was under control, the report said.