26 Apr 2020 | 05:57 PM UTC
Hong Kong: Riot police disperse protesters in Taikoo Shing (Quarry Bay) April 26 /update 196
Riot police disperse hundreds of pro-democracy protesters at Cityplaza mall in Taikoo Shing (Quarry Bay) April 26; similar protests possible over the near term
Event
Riot police dispersed approximately 300 pro-democracy protesters who were gathered at Cityplaza mall in Taikoo Shing (Quarry Bay) on Sunday, April 26, despite the current ban in place on public gatherings of more than four people implemented amid the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak.
Police forces cordoned off areas of the mall and dispersed the "singing" protest as well as shoppers in the area; the activists were reportedly chanting popular protest slogans and calling for the release of pro-democracy activists. Shops in the vicinity of the protest reportedly closed.
Public gatherings of more than people are still prohibited; Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam extended the social-distancing measures in place across the territory until Thursday, May 7.
Additional demonstrations and public gatherings should be expected in Hong Kong over the near term. A heightened security presence and disruptions to transportation and business are to be expected near related protests.
Context
Demonstrations have been held throughout Hong Kong since June 2019 to protest a controversial extradition bill, which would have allowed authorities in Hong Kong to extradite fugitives wanted in mainland China and other territories. While the bill was withdrawn on September 4, mass protests continue to be organized to demand government reforms and police accountability over violence since the start of the demonstrations. Pro-democracy candidates won 389 of the 452 seats in the territory's district council elections on November 24. The pro-democracy movement victory and the high turnout (71 percent) for the vote suggest that the public continues to support protests. Over 7000 people have been arrested since the protests began.
Advice
Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to monitor developments, report suspicious objects and behavior to police, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
