Ten arrests as Hong Kong police deploy in force on 4th anniv. of Yuen Long mob attacks
Hong Kong Free Press
Eight men and two women were arrested around Yuen Long and Tin Shui Wai on Friday night, police have told HKFP. Friday marked the anniversary of a mob attack that took place around Yuen Long MTR station four years ago.
Officers, some in tactical gear, had deployed in large numbers, carrying out stop-and-search actions.
On July 21, 2019, over 100 rod-wielding men stormed Yuen Long MTR station leaving 45 people injured – including journalists, protesters, commuters and pro-democracy lawmaker Lam Cheuk-ting. Police were criticised for responding slowly to the incident, with some officers seen leaving the scene or interacting with the white-clad men. The official account of the incident evolved over a year, with the authorities eventually claiming it was a “gang fight.”
The incident took place during months-long pro-democracy protests and unrest.
‘Persevere to the end’
Among those apprehended on Friday was activist Alexandra Wong, also known as “Grandma Wong.” She pulled out a pro-democracy yellow umbrella and British flag from her bag.
One person displayed a banner stating: “Persevere to the end,” according to The Collective.
Journalists were also made to register their identities and produce credentials.
Police told HKFP on Saturday that those arrested on Friday night were between the ages of 21 and 65. Following three calls, police were unable to state in English what the arrests were for, adding that they would publish details later.
In all, only eight of the attackers were convicted and jailed for between three-and-a-half and seven years. Of those, five lodged appeals. Eight others have been charged with rioting. Then-lawmaker Lam – whose live-stream showed him being attacked – is among them, and is set to appear in court in October.
A journalist at the now-defunct Stand News, , was also attacked. She is currently on trial for her involvement in a legislative primary.
Support HKFP | Policies & Ethics | Error/typo? | Contact Us | Newsletter | Transparency & Annual Report | Apps
Help safeguard press freedom & keep HKFP free for all readers by supporting our team
Support press freedom & help us surpass 1,000 monthly Patrons: 100% independent, governed by an ethics code & not-for-profit.
