Hong Kong: Police fire live ammunition in Sai Wan Ho November 11 /update 150

Event

A police officer reportedly fired live ammunition at protesters in Sai Wan Ho on the morning (local time) of Monday, November 11. According to initial reports, as many as three rounds were fired and at least one person may have been hit as of 08:00. The incident occurred after protesters gathered throughout Hong Kong starting at 07:00 to block major roadways amid a general strike. The situation remains fluid and details are still emerging. 

Significant transportation disruptions have been reported throughout Hong Kong on Monday. Tai Chung Kiu Road in Sha Tin has been blocked as well as the intersection of King Ling Road and Choi Ming Street in Tseung Kwan O. MTR rail service between Fo Tan station and Lo Wu station and Lok Ma Chau station has been suspended on the East Rail Line. Service has also been suspended on the Ma On Shan Line between Shek Mun and Wu Kai Sha stations. Tung Chung station has also been closed as a precaution. Further MTR service adjustments or closures are possible through Monday if the situation escalates. Up-to-date information on service information and station closures can be found on the MTR website.

Demonstrations are expected to take place over the coming days. A 40-hour prayer meeting is also set to take place at Edinburgh Place from 08:00 on Monday to 09:00 on Tuesday, November 12, and 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.