Hundreds of demonstrators surrounded government headquarters in Hong Kong Wednesday to protest a highly controversial law that would make it possible for people accused of crimes to be extradited to China to stand trial.
Chanting “Chit Wui!” (“Retract it”) in Cantonese, the protesters overturned barriers and clashed with police. Police used pepper spray and water cannons to break up the crowds.
Hong Kong Postpones Extradition Debate as Police Turn Water Cannon on Protestershttps://t.co/ZV1c3D9fIT #hongkong via @DavidTweed pic.twitter.com/ygrqZ8P9tR
— Tom Mackenzie (@TomMackenzieTV) June 12, 2019
“This behavior has gone beyond the scope of a peaceful gathering,” law enforcement authorities said in a statement.
Hong Kong protests paralyze the city
Tens of thousands of protesters paralysed central Hong Kong, blocking major roads in a show of strength against government plans to allow extraditions to #China. Police used water cannons and pepper spray on protesters to disperse them. pic.twitter.com/8JaCVh6tAy
— EHA News (@eha_news) June 12, 2019
The proposed bill would apply to 37 crimes, but opponents fear it could be used to target political activists.
Hong Kong police have used water cannons and fired tear gas at protesters demonstrating against a controversial extradition bill. Live updates: https://t.co/AhIU6ADPLc pic.twitter.com/jLlQ4xdRY9
— CNN International (@cnni) June 12, 2019
After being handed over by the British in 1997, Hong Kong was given 50 years to operate its own social, legal, and political systems while being semi-autonomous to China under a “one country, two systems” plan. However, China has been eroding that agreement by enforcing new laws on Hong Kong.
Hong Kong extradition bill debate delayed after massive protests — Water cannon, tear gas, and pepper spray fired as thousands of protesters surround Legislative Council building. https://t.co/i8b4zMST5g
— Alfons López Tena #FBPE (@alfonslopeztena) June 12, 2019
Pro-Beijing lawmakers hold a 43-27 majority in the Hong Kong legislature, so the measure is expected to pass when it comes up for a vote in the coming days.
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© 2019 New York Daily News
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