Hong Kong police say protests off designated route illegal

Published On: August 3, 2019 10:41 AM NPT By: Associated Press

A man holds up a sign that reads: "Civil servants, stand out!" during a demonstration in Hong Kong Friday, Aug. 2, 2019. Protesters plan to return to the streets again this weekend, angered by the government's refusal to answer their demands, violent tactics used by police - possibly in coordination with organized crime figures. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

HONG KONG, Aug 3: Hong Kong police have called on the public to stick to designated routes and times for a spate of protests planned this weekend.

Police said in a briefing ahead of a scheduled rally Saturday that any demonstrations that are not pre-approved are unlawful.

Hong Kong’s summer of protest has continued unabated despite the government’s decision to suspend the controversial extradition bill. While the pro-democracy rallies have been largely peaceful, they have increasingly devolved into violent clashes with police after some protesters refused to disperse at assigned times.

Police on Saturday did not rule out engaging in clearance operations for those who disregard the terms of their assembly permit. In past weekends, protesters have vandalized buildings and thrown bricks, while police have used tear gas.