URGENT: Protesters must disperse, ‘not defy law’: top Hong Kong official

Protesters shelter under umbrellas during a downpour as they occupy roads near the government headquarters in Hong Kong on June 12, 2019. – Tens of thousands of protesters paralysed central Hong Kong, blocking major roads in a defiant show of strength against government plans to allow extraditions to China. By late morning, with crowds continuing to swell, officials in the Legislative Council (Legco) said they would delay the second reading of the bill “to a later date”. (Photo by Anthony WALLACE / AFP)

 

Protesters blocking roads around Hong Kong’s parliament must disperse and obey the law, a top government figure warned Wednesday, in the first official reaction to the latest protests sparked by plans to allow extraditions to China.

Matthew Cheung, the city’s chief secretary, called on demonstrators to unblock key arteries and withdraw.

“I also urge citizens who have gathered to show restraint as much as possible, disperse peacefully and do not defy the law,” he said in a video message.

© Agence France-Presse