Government strongly condemns malicious acts of rioters
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     Despite a Letter of Objection issued by Police, members of the public still took part in a procession in Tsim Sha Tsui today (October 20). Masked rioters again took the opportunity to block roads and went on a rampage in various districts in Kowloon, targeting police stations, government facilities, MTR stations and offices of council members who hold different views as well as selected banks and shops. They committed arson in a number of buildings and hurled petrol bombs at them, setting them ablaze. Some rioters even set fires in indoor areas which would be disastrous if the fires had spread.  A vehicle with a large number of petrol bombs was intercepted by Police earlier today and suspected explosive items were found in city areas. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government strongly condemns the acts of the rioters which completely disregard law and order, severely undermining social order. Without regard to people's safety, rights and needs, those acts are extremely irresponsible. 

     Rioters conducted illegal acts during or after public processions on many occasions in the past. Police will strictly enforce the law to restore public order. Members of the public should not fall foul of the law by participating in unauthorised processions and assemblies in order not to give rioters the chance to commit crimes.

Ends/Sunday, October 20, 2019
Issued at HKT 23:59

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