Hong Kong: Protesters disrupt MTR traffic and call for student strikes and rally September 2 /update 80

Event

Protesters in Hong Kong blocked several MTR stations in the morning (local time) on Monday, September 2, notably the Kowloon Tong station, as part of ongoing civil disobedience mobilizations, causing major network disruptions. The police was deployed to multiple stations, including Admiralty, Tsim Sha Tsui, North Point, Mong Kok, Tai Wai, and Quary Bay, conducting stop and search procedures.  

Furthermore, students of multiple schools boycotted class, forming human chains, blocking access to buildings in various parts of the city. Hundreds of students gathered at Edinburg Place in downtown Hong Kong as of 09:30 as part of a two-days strike. University students also called for a two-weeks class boycott and organized a sit-in in front of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK).

Another rally, organized by representatives from 21 sectors and supported by the Confederation of Trade Unions, started at 15:15 at Tamar Park, Admiralty . A second rally, originally planned in Salisbury Garden (Tsim Sha Tsui) was banned by the police.

Additional demonstrations are likely to take place in the coming days. Heightened security measures and severe transportation disruptions are anticipated throughout Hong Kong during protest activity. Clashes between security personnel and demonstrators cannot be ruled out.

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 The bill has been suspended, though not fully withdrawn.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.