Government response to illegal protests
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Advocating strikes and the so-called "unco-operative movement", protesters deliberately blocked the Cross Harbour Tunnel and major trunk roads such as Lung Cheung Road, disrupted train services and caused trouble at various MTR stations yesterday morning, seriously affecting a lot of people's commute to work during peak hours. It was even found that some objects were put on the tracks, risking the safety of train operation and passengers.
In the afternoon, illegal blockage of roads by the protesters spread across the territory and they, in an organised manner, charged the Central Government Offices and police stations in multiple districts, vandalised police vehicles, attacked police officers and committed arson. After nightfall, protesters once again removed a national flag from the flag pole and threw it into the sea, blatantly challenging the national authority. The protesters' organised acts disregarded the law and order, deprived the right of other members of the public to go to work and carry on their daily lives, and seriously affected economic activities. The incrementally spreading and rapidly escalating violence is outrageous, and is pushing Hong Kong to the verge of a very dangerous situation. The HKSAR Government strongly condemns the protesters' acts.
The HKSAR Government is grateful to the civil servants and public service providers for their dedication to work, enabling the normal operation of public services in general and minimising disruptions to public transport yesterday. The Government also thanks people from all walks of life for standing fast at their posts. We once again appeal to all members of the public who cherish and love Hong Kong to work together with the HKSAR Government to combat violence, uphold the rule of law and restore social order as soon as possible.
Ends/Tuesday, August 6, 2019
Issued at HKT 1:40
Issued at HKT 1:40
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