Hong Kong: Protesters march through Central October 11 /update 121

Event

A spontaneous protest march is causing traffic disruptions in Central as of 13:45 (local time) on Friday, October 11. Hundreds of people are estimated to be walking along Connaught Road after gathering near Chater Garden starting at around 12:30. The flash mob demonstration was organized in support of a female Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) student who accused police officers of sexually abusing her after she was arrested during a protest on August 31. Some police officers have deployed around the ongoing march, but the rally has so far remained peaceful. Further demonstrations are possible in the coming hours and days throughout Hong Kong and may occur with little notice.

Disruptions to Hong Kong’s MTR system are also ongoing on Friday. The MTR Corporation has announced that service for all MTR lines, Light Rail, and MTR buses will end at 22:00. Airport Express service, however, will not be affected. Similar service disruptions are likely in the coming days as repair work continues at stations damaged during recent protests.

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.