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As at 6.30am today (July 2), Police arrested a total of 196 people, including 141 males and 55 females, for participating in unauthorised assembly and obstructing police officers in an operation in Central this morning. The operation is still ongoing and Police express regret over the uncooperative and illegal acts of the participants of the public meeting.
The public meeting on Chater Road on July 1 should have concluded according to the finishing time stated in the Letter of No Objection. After repeated advice and warnings by Police including the display of warning banners, those refusing to leave in fact took part in an unauthorised assembly. They occupied the road and blocked the traffic, endangering public safety and public order as well as disregarding their own safety and the safety of other people. There are 26 bus routes and one minibus route operating along Chater Road, and 13 bus routes operating at the section of Des Voeux Road Central between Pedder Street and Murray Road. If Chater Road is closed, the traffic of Queen¡¦s Road Central, Des Voeux Road Central, Pedder Street and even the whole Hong Kong Island will be affected.
In order to restore public order, safeguard public safety and resume the traffic there, Police decided to take action and arrested the protesters according to the law. Police officers at scene conducted the operation in a professional and restrained manner and with no other alternatives, Police had to use necessary and appropriate force.
Police reiterate we respect the public's freedoms of expression, speech and assembly. It is the policy of Police to facilitate all lawful and peaceful public events while at the same time ensuring public safety and public order. Members of the public should comply with the laws of Hong Kong and maintain social order when expressing their views.
Police will not tolerate any acts jeopardising public order and public safety. We will take resolute action and effective measures against any illegal activities in order to restore public order.
Ends/Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Issued at HKT 10:29
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