Government urges public not to go to Admiralty area

     A Government spokesman said today (June 12) that a riot broke out in the Admiralty area, with protesters causing serious obstruction to major trunk roads and great inconvenience.

     The spokesman said a number of protesters had used very dangerous weapons and a high level of violence. They have repeatedly charged at police officers, leading to an increasingly chaotic situation. The Government calls on the persons at the location to leave immediately for their own safety. Other members of the public should not go to the Admiralty area. The spokesperson also urged protesters who were blocking the carriageways to release certain traffic lanes immediately to allow the passage of emergency vehicles and let traffic resume as soon as possible.

     The spokesman added that Hong Kong people enjoy the rights to freedom of expression and assembly. However, protesters assembling at the scene must comply with the laws of Hong Kong and maintain social order, remain calm and exercise restraint, leave the scene peacefully. The Police will take appropriate actions if there are any illegal acts.