Police Official Who Handled Occupy Recalled

The police commander who oversaw the force's response to the Occupy demonstrations five years ago has been recalled from retirement to help deal with the ongoing anti-extradition protests.

Former deputy commissioner Lau Yip-shing started serving in the temporary post of deputy commissioner of police for special duties on Friday.

The main duties of the supernumerary post will be to assist Police Commissioner Stephen Lo in handling large-scale public order events and major operations, including celebratory activities in relation to the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

Lau had retired at the end of 2018.

The police have come in for criticism over their recent tactics, with allegations that officers are using excessive force when dealing with protesters.

The ongoing campaign against the government has seen regular clashes between protesters and police and analysts warn that the level of violence on both sides is increasing.

Lo has defended the police methods but some protesters have called for his resignation.