Hong Kong: Protest staged at Revenue Tower in Wan Chai June 24

Event

A group of protesters are holding a demonstration in the lobby of Revenue Tower in Wan Chai on Monday, June 24, as of 13:45 (local time). Around 100 demonstrators are reportedly blocking entrance to the building through the main and side doors. As of 13:45, there is a not a significant police presence. Localized disruptions are expected; an increased security presence is possible in the coming hours and clashes with protesters cannot be ruled out.

Context

Protests and mass demonstrations of up to 2 million people have been held since June 9 in opposition to a controversial bill that would allow Hong Kong to extradite fugitives wanted in mainland China, along with Macau and Taiwan. Opponents claim the law would erode freedoms guaranteed by China in 1997 and may be used to silence dissent and criticism.

Advice

Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to monitor the situation, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, refrain from discussing political topics in public or on social media, avoid all public demonstrations due to the risk of violence and arrest, and anticipate localized transportation and business disruptions and a heightened security presence.