Government Condemns Protesters, Yuen Long Violence

The government has issued a statement condemning both protesters who clashed with police on Hong Kong Island and violent attacks in Yuen Long.

It followed a night of chaos across the SAR on Sunday, after marchers involved in a peaceful anti-extradition rally ignored police orders to stop in Wan Chai and continued on westwards.

Some gathered outside Beijing's liaison office in Sai Wan, throwing objects and spraying graffiti. Police later fired tear gas and rubber bullets in a confrontation in Sheung Wan.

"Some radical protesters initiated a series of violent acts in Sheung Wan area, despite repeated warnings by the police." a government spokesman said. "These outrageous, violent acts included hurling petrol bombs, setting fires and throwing bricks. Thoroughfares were also blocked."

In Yuen Long, gangs of armed people in white attacked passengers and people in and around the Yuen Long MTR station. At least 45 people were injured, of whom one was fighting for their life on Monday morning.

The government spokesman added: "Meanwhile in Yuen Long, some people congregated at the platforms of the MTR station and train compartments, attacking commuters. It led to confrontations and injuries.

"This is absolutely unacceptable to Hong Kong as a society that observes the rule of law. The SAR government strongly condemns any violence and will seriously take enforcement actions."