China: Protests possible in Hong Kong in connection with Dec. 28 hearing scheduled in Yantian District, Shenzhen

Event

Activists may hold protests in Hong Kong in connection with a legal hearing scheduled at Yantian District People's Court in neighboring Shenzhen. Ten members of a group of 12 Hong Kong residents were detained by mainland Chinese authorities in August after attempting to flee from Hong Kong to Taiwan by boat. The men are scheduled to have a hearing at Yantian District People's Court on the afternoon of Dec. 28. The detained individuals had previously been arrested in Hong Kong on various rioting and weapons-related charges and then released on bail. If protests occur in Hong Kong, demonstrators may attempt to gather at government buildings, shopping centers, or public parks. Any protests would likely involved dozens to hundreds of people. Protests could occur on Dec. 28 on in subsequent days.

Officials will almost certainly move to break up any protests that occur due to ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) gathering restrictions. Clashes between police and demonstrators are possible. Officers will probably move quickly to arrest protesters. Protests may prompt localized business and transport disruptions, especially if activists block or march along roadways. Authorities may suspend Mass Transit Railway (MTR) operations if large crowds materialize or violence occurs.

In addition to potential protests in Hong Kong, officials in Shenzhen are likely to impose strict security measures near Yantian District People's Court. Police could close sections of nearby roads and sidewalks, prompting localized ground transport disruptions.

Advice

Check with local sources or monitor local media as organizers of protest in Hong Kong are unlikely to announce protest locations in advance. Avoid all demonstrations due to the possibility of violence. Heed all security personnel instructions. If clashes break out nearby, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Allow additional time to reach destinations near planned protests.