11 Jul 2019 | 04:55 AM UTC
Hong Kong: Fresh protests planned in New Territories July 13, 14 /update 17
Protesters plan demonstrations in New Territories on July 13, 14; localized disruptions, public transportation congestion, and heightened security presence expected
Event
Protest groups are calling for demonstrations across Hong Kong in the coming weeks, beginning with two protests in the New Territories on Saturday, July 13, and Sunday, July 14. On Saturday, a demonstration will be held in Sheung Shui around 15:30 (local time) beginning at North District Sports Ground. Anti-extradition bill groups will stage a protest march in Sha Tin on Sunday at 15:30 from Chui Tan Street soccer pitch in Tai Wai to Sha Tin government offices. Organizers are planning on 10,000 people attending the Sha Tin march. A heightened security presence is expected at all demonstrations along with road closures, public transportation congestion and possible closures, and business disruptions; clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.
A third New Territories protest march is also tentatively planned for Sunday, July 21, or Sunday, July 28, in Tseung Kwan O. Additionally, a memorial ceremony will be held on Thursday, July 12, between 14:00 and 22:00 at Java Road Playground near North Point on Hong Kong Island. Further demonstrations, marches, vigils, and altercations are possible across Hong Kong in the coming days and weeks.
Context
Protest activity has spread from Hong Kong Island in recent days with an estimated 250,000 people participating in a protest march in Kowloon on Sunday, July 7. Additional demonstrations are expected in Kowloon and the New Territories in the coming weeks.
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 and other territories. Opponents claim the law would erode freedoms and 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.
