Papua New Guinea police in riot gear have reportedly entered the Manus Island Detention Centre as tensions continue to escalate.

Violent clashes between guards and asylum seekers are being reported.



The clashes come after several days of hunger strikes being staged by the asylum seekers. Refugee advocates said on Friday that nearly 500 asylum seekers were now involved in hunger strikes as they protest against a plan to move about 50 people determined to be refugees into temporary accommodation on the outskirts of Lorengau, the island's capital.

Between 30 and 40 asylum seekers had now stitched their lips together and four Pakistani asylum seekers had been taken to hospital after swallowing washing powder, according to refugee advocates.