Given the riots in various districts since last night (October 4), a Government spokesman today (October 5) appeals to members of the public to pay attention to personal safety.

     Since last night, multiple rioters had blocked roads, extensively vandalised shops, government and MTR facilities as well as set fires, hurled petrol bombs and attacked members of the public in various districts. They paralysed traffic and caused the MTR to suspend operation of all the lines. With escalating violence, they set fires in indoor areas and even on an MTR train, seriously jeopardising the safety of the people at the scene and nearby. As the Police said, some rioters attacked a plain-clothes police officer, and with his life under serious threat, the officer had to use his pistol. Some rioters later hurled petrol bombs at him, setting his body on fire, and even attempted to take away the pistol which had dropped to the ground.

     The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government severely condemns the rioters' violent acts which completely disregard human life and appeals to members of the public to pay attention to personal safety. Police will continue to take enforcement actions resolutely to safeguard public safety and restore public order.

Ends/Saturday, October 5, 2019
Issued at HKT 1:31

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