Fujianese Dismiss Rumours Of Planned Attacks

A major Fujianese group in Hong Kong said on Saturday that its people will “definitely not come out to beat anyone”, as messages circulated that some Fujianese communities are mobilising people to attack protesters at a planned protest on the Hong Kong Island on Sunday.

The Hong Kong Federation of Fujian Associations held a gathering on Saturday afternoon with the theme of “stopping violence, opposing independence and protecting our home”.

More than 240 Fujianese communities and clans took part, and representatives sang songs of solidarity and shouted slogans to show support for Chief Executive Carrie Lam and the police force.

Dismissing rumours that their members are planning an attack on protesters, the federation’s chairman, Ng Woon-yim, said members have been asked to stay at home on Sunday to avoid conflicts with “people dressed in black” – apparently referring to anti-extradition protesters.

Ng said Fujianese have also been told to remain calm and restrained, and to help keep society stable.

He said the Fujianese will protect their home “by staying in, to have tea and rest”.

“We’ll defend ourselves indoor, not outside. We will defend ourselves at home. We won’t walk out our door, don’t worry,” Ng said.