03 Sep 2019 | 06:04 AM UTC
Hong Kong: Police arrest dozens following protests September 2 /update 81
Police reportedly arrest several activists on September 2 following protests in Kowloon; heightened security presence, further protests, and disruptions expected in the coming days
Event
Anti-extradition bill activists have reported that police arrested at least 19 people in Mong Kok on the evening (local time) of Monday, September 2, in connection with the protest against police brutality that took place on Saturday, August 31. A further four people were also arrested earlier in the day at Lok Fu and Lai King MTR stations, though police have not yet confirmed any of the arrests as of Tuesday, September 3.
University and secondary students are currently participating in a protest and strike as of 13:26 on Tuesday. Local media outlets have reported that police clashed with at least 60 student protesters outside Confucian Tai Shing Ho Kwok Pui Chun College in Tai Po. Another protest is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 7, where activists are planning to march around the Government House although organizers have yet to announce an exact time. Severe transportation and business disruptions and a heightened security presence are expected throughout Hong Kong during protest activity. Further protests are likely in the coming days and weeks.
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. The bill has been suspended, though not fully withdrawn. 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. Despite the arrest several prominent pro-democracy figures on Friday, September 30, protesters gathered for a 13th straight week-end of demonstrations.
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.
