Hong Kong: Further opposition demonstrations scheduled October 6 /update 114

Event

Opposition activists are planning further protests in Hong Kong on Sunday, October 6. A journalists' association has called for a protest against police brutality at 14:00 (local time) in Victoria Park. At the same time, activists opposing the use of the emergency regulations ordinance have scheduled two marches: in Hong Kong Island, participants plan to gather at Sogo (Causeway Bay) and march to Chater Garden (Central); in Kowloon, participants are due to meet at Salisbury Road (Tsim Sha Tsui) and then head to Maple Street Playground (Sham Shui Po). Clashes between protesters and security forces are likely. 

Some MTR services have resumed as of 10:45 on Sunday, including the Airport Express, following severe damage to numerous stations during violent protests on Friday, October 4. However, from 13:00 until the last departure, the Airport Express will only service Hong Kong station and Airport station. All train services are due to cease after 21:00 on Sunday.

A heightened security presence is likely across Hong Kong until the situation fully stabilizes. Severe transportation and business disruptions are to be expected during all periods of protest activity. Further demonstrations are expected in the coming days. 

Context

On September 4, Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced the withdrawal of a controversial extradition bill, which would have allowed authorities in Hong Kong to extradite fugitives wanted in mainland China and other territories. The bill sparked mass protests of up to 2 million people throughout Hong Kong since June 9. However, protest actions have continued since the government's announcement, as protesters' demands evolved 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. 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, budget additional time to reach Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

Individuals are also advised to avoid wearing black and white colors around protest zones or rallies as they are associated with protesters.