Hong Kong: Protests expected to continue on November 12 /update 153

Event

Tensions remain high in Hong Kong on Tuesday, November 12, after a day of violent clashes between protesters and police officers throughout the territory. Additional demonstrations are expected to take place on Tuesday morning (local time) and protesters may attempt to block major roads again. Disruptions to MTR service are also ongoing Tuesday morning, with some stations remaining closed or service between stations suspended. Up-to-date information on service information and station closures can be found on the MTR website.

At least 260 people were arrested on Monday, November 11, following hours of violent protests. The situation escalated after a student demonstrator was shot by a police officer in Sai Wan Ho on Monday morning. Later in the day a man confronting protesters was reportedly set on fire. Both individuals are in critical condition as of Tuesday. According to media reports, police fired tear gas in at least 12 locations, including Sai Wan Ho, Tai Po (New Territories), Tsuen Wan, and Tuen Mun. Stand-offs between students and riot police also took place at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and Polytechnic University.

Demonstrations are expected to take place over the coming days. A prayer meeting set to take place at Edinburgh Place from 07:00-21:00 on Wednesday, November 13. Another rally is expected to be held outside Kwai Chung Plaza at 19:00 on November 12. However, further protests may occur with little warning.

A heightened security presence is likely across Hong Kong until the political situation in the city fully stabilizes. Severe transportation and business disruptions are to be expected during all periods of protest activity. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.

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 disruptions to transportation and business around protest sites, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.