Hong Kong: Police fire tear gas at protesters in Mongkok October 7 /update 116

Event

Demonstrations in Hong Kong continued Monday, October 7, as hundreds of protesters gathered outside Prince Edward MTR Station in Mongkok. Riot police fired tear gas to disperse approximately 250 protesters outside the station; no clashes ensued as a result of the confrontation. Earlier in the day, small-scale demonstrations were reported in various shopping malls across Hong Kong.

As of Monday evening (local time), Hong Kong's metro rail system remains only partially open due to violent protests that occurred on Sunday, October 6. Many shops, banks, and ATMS were reportedly vandalized. Authorities on Monday stated that they would not rule out internet restrictions in an effort to curb further demonstrations.

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.