'Rumours Aimed To Ensure Rule By Terror'

Pro-democracy lawmaker Chu Hoi-dick said on Tuesday that rumours of impending attacks were spread by some people in power to ensure "rule by terror".

Chu, who represents the New Territories West constituency, said word was spread last week that he and other pro-democracy figures were bringing protesters to Yuen Long to stir up trouble.

"I think it is a tactic deployed by the government, or even by Beijing, to rule by terror," Chu said. "To actually incite those thugs to have violent actions, with police standing aside in order to create terror among citizens."

He said this is a tactic employed by authoritarian regimes like Russia, Ukraine and even China.

The lawmaker called on people to stay calm and also urged protesters not to target all villagers.

"We also urge protesters not to attack villagers since not all villagers are involved in the violent acts on July 21," he said.

At least 45 people were injured after suspected triad members beat up protesters and others at the Yuen Long MTR station on Sunday night.

Chu told RTHK's Candice Wong that he has heard the relevant triad leaders have already left Hong Kong and there may not be another attack by them soon.