Hong Kong: Authorities close metro station due to ongoing protests September 6 /update 84

Event

Authorities closed the Prince Edward MTR Station in Hong Kong on Friday, September 6, due to a protest inside the metro station. The station was closed at 17:15 (local time) to ensure safety of passengers, though left many commuters stranded at outside exits among dispersed protesters. The protest began with a single participant, who was later joined by others and grew into a large crowd of protesters. Firemen, policemen, and MTR staff cleared and inspected the station. Trains on Tsuen Wan Line and Kwun Tong Line are therefore not stopping at the Prince Edward station.

Several other protests were reported on Friday across Hong Kong, including at the Hospital Authority, Chater Gardens, outside Mong Kok Police Station near the Prince Edward station, and outside the Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts.

Significant transportation disruptions are likely surrounding the Prince Edward MTR station and all other ongoing protests.

Additional demonstrations are still scheduled to be held in the coming days despite Chief Executive Carrie Lam's announcement on Wednesday, September 4, that the controversial extradition bill will be formally withdrawn. On Saturday, September 7, a protest action aimed at disrupting operations at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is planned to start at 13:00, while on Sunday, September 8, protesters have planned to gather at Edinburgh Place at 14:00 and march towards the US Consulate General. 

A heightened security presence is likely to remain throughout Hong Kong until the situation fully stabilizes. Severe transportation and business disruptions are expected throughout Hong Kong during any protests.  

Context

Protests and mass demonstrations of up to 2 million people have been held in Hong Kong since June 9, in opposition to a controversial bill that would allow authorities in 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. Protesters demands later morphed into a wider pro-democracy movement, calling for government reforms and police accountability over violence.

Demonstrations have spread from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon and the New Territories in recent weeks and have also become increasingly violent. On July 21, a group of pro-government men armed with bars and sticks attacked protesters and commuters in Yuen Long, leaving 45 people injured. Activists have also accused the police of using unnecessary force in their attempts to disperse protesters.

Advice

Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations, prepare for associated disruptions to transportation and business, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.