Masked Protesters Take To The Streets In Defiance

A very large group of people have started a defiant march from Causeway Bay on Saturday to express their opposition to the government’s introduction of the anti-mask law.

Many of the protesters were wearing face masks, an act that had become illegal as per the emergency laws brought in by the Carrie Lam administration.

As per the new law, brought in by using the colonial-era Emergency Regulations Ordinance, anyone wearing face mask at rallies – authorised or not – can face up to one year in jail.

But many of the marchers, which some reports said numbered in thousands, ignored the new law.

The protesters chanted slogans like "Hong Kong people resist" and also displayed a large banner with words "Glory to Hong Kong".

After the march ended in Chater Garden, many continued sitting on the pavement or in the surrounding areas, some with their masks on.

One of them who gave his name as Charles, said he was a little afraid of joining the protest, but decided to join anyway. "To be honest, I was little afraid to come out. But then I think I cannot just stay at home... [the anti-mask law] is not a reasonable law," he said.

Another protester said she was not afraid. "We are fighting for our freedom, it is our right to do it," said the protester named Joyce.

Meanwhile, dozens of masked protesters also marched around Sheung Shui, vandalising shops and restaurants which they accused of backing the government.

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