Police severely condemn violent protests

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     Police earlier issued the Letter of Objection for the public procession held in Tuen Mun yesterday (September 21). After the hearing by Appeal Board on Public Meetings and Processions, Police issued the Letter of No Objection for the revised public procession. However, some protestors deviated from the original route. Some other rioters set fire on a national flag, damaged properties at light rail stations etc. They threw petrol bombs at police vehicles and police officers, and even attempted to snatch the revolver of a police officer, seriously endangering the safety of others and Police officers at scene. Police severely condemn the protestors for these violent acts.

     Starting from 4pm, some protestors blocked the roads and set barricades in the vicinity of Tuen Mun, causing obstruction to the traffic. Apart from setting barricades, some radical protestors also damaged facilities in Light Rail Town Centre Station and hurled objects into the light rail tracks.

     Later on, radical protestors escalated their violence. During the dispersal operation, some rioters threw petrol bombs at Police officers repeatedly. They even attacked a Police officer conducting arrest with hard objects on Tuen Wui Street and attempted to snatch his revolver.

     At about 9.10pm, rioters again threw petrol bombs at police vehicles on Castle Peak Road – Yuen Long, causing danger to the life of the Police officers on board. Protestors also occupied carriageways, set fire and committed violent and destructive acts that totally disregarding law and order.

     Rioters continued to gather in the vicinity of Yuen Long at late night. A number of dispute, assault and fighting incidents arose as people have different views. As a result, many people were assaulted causing serious injuries.

     In addition, many protestors gathered outside Mong Kok Police Station. They occupied Nathan Road in Mong Kok and set up barricades.

     During the dispersal operation yesterday, having given repeated warnings but in vain, Police had to use appropriate force including tear gases and 40mm react rounds to stop the violent acts.

     Police reiterate that we do not tolerate any violent behaviours. Police severely condemn rioters for repeatedly throwing petrol bombs at police vehicles and police officers and attempting to snatch the revolver. Police would use appropriate force to stop these acts. Police will continue to take resolute enforcement action so as to safeguard the city’s public safety and bring all lawbreakers to justice.

Ends/Sunday, September 22, 2019
Issued at HKT 2:10

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