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Police today (December 23) appeal to members of the public to express views in a peaceful and rational manner. They should refrain from conducting public meeting and procession by way of ¡§mobile occupation¡¨ and causing nuisance to local community and shops, so that all Hong Kong citizens can enjoy the Christmas and New Year festive season.
Police recently noted that some protesters still gathered and lingered in the vicinity of Mong Kok, Tsim Sha Tsui and Causeway Bay at times, causing obstruction to the roads and adversely affecting business of the shops there. Some netizens also called on people to participate in assemblies or processions at a number of locations before and during the holidays.
Police stress that such malicious acts of nuisance may commit the offences of "taking part in unauthorized assembly", "obstructing Police officer in execution of duty", "disorderly conduct in public place", "unlawful assembly", or "loitering", etc. Police will strengthen deployment in various districts and step up patrol with a view to maintaining public order and safeguarding public safety.
If anyone refuses to comply with Police advice and warning, and deliberately disrupts public order and engages in acts that disregard the safety of others, Police will take resolute enforcement action to stop the unlawful behaviour. Police also urge members of the public, in particular underage youngsters, not to take part in such activities or be incited to commit illegal acts.
Police reiterate that 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.
Ends/Tuesday, December 23, 2014
Issued at HKT 17:56
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