Hong Kong: Debate on controversial extradition bill delayed as violent protests continue June 12 /update 10

Event

The government announced on Wednesday, June 12, it would delay debate on the controversial extradition bill until further notice, originally expected to take place the same date, following mass protests in downtown Hong Kong. Tens of thousands of people gathered in downtown Hong Kong, erecting barricades and blocking main arteries in Admiralty, including the Queensway, Harcourt Road and Flyover, and Lung Wo Road. This led to clashes between protesters and security forces, who reportedly fired pepper spray and tear gas at protesters. As of 19:30 (local time), thousands of protesters have moved west to Hong Kong's Central district, notably on Queens Road Central and Connaught and Pedder Street, after being forced away by the police from the Legislative Council building. No official number of injuries have yet been released.

Further protests and clashes are likely in the coming hours and days, along with other disruptions, including road and MTR station closures.

Context

Mass protests attended by up to 1.03 million people were held in Hong Kong on Sunday, June 9. The protests were largely peaceful, though some clashes with security forces were reported in the early morning hours.

Several demonstrations have been held in recent weeks over a proposed law that would allow Hong Kong to extradite fugitives to mainland China, along with Macau and Taiwan. Opponents claim the law would erode freedoms guaranteed when possession of Hong Kong was transferred from the UK to China in 1997 and may be used to silence dissent on Chinese policies.

Advice

Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to monitor the situation, refrain from discussing political topics in public or on social media, avoid all public gatherings, and anticipate transportation and business disruptions and a heightened security presence.