MTR To Review Suspension Later In The Day

The MTR Corporation said it would review its suspension of all services later on Saturday, adding that the violent protests had left it no choice but to make the decision.

The rail operator suspended all MTR services, including the line to the airport, after violent clashes between police and pro-democracy protesters on Friday saw subway stations vandalised.

"All MTR services covering the Heavy Rail including Airport Express, Light Rail and MTR bus cannot be resumed this morning," the rail company said in a statement.

The rail firm suspended services on Friday night after large scale vandalism and arson.

On the East Rail line, an idle train was set on fire at Shatin station, and two MTR staff were assaulted at Sheung Shui station.

"After the outbreak of violence at multiple districts, maintenance staff has to make sure of their own safety before they could travel to the damaged stations to inspect and assess the extent of damages at our stations, and to carry out repair works," the statement said. The MTR did not say when on Saturday it would review the closure.

The MTR's chief executive, Jacob Kam, said it was a difficult decision to stop all services but there was no alternative if the rail company was to provide a safe and reliable service to customers.

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