Police were called in to keep the peace
I refer to the letter headlined 'Broken promises' and the report headlined 'Police accused over sect's sit-in (South China Morning Post, November 15 and 17, respectively), regarding a protest by Falun Gong followers.
A total of 11 warnings for general obstruction and 16 warnings for unauthorised display of and obstruction of banners had been issued to the protesters since they first staged their sit-in outside 162 Connaught Road West, on August 25. They recently put up large banners on the pavement, some of which were 2.5 metres high, blocking an area two metres wide and nine metres long. This caused inconvenience to pedestrians.
As a result, three complaints of obstruction and nuisance were lodged with the police. After repeated warnings to remove the obstructions were ignored, officers from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department removed the banners on November 10. The protesters resisted and police were called in order to keep the peace.
While the police respect the right of protesters to express their views in a peaceful and lawful manner, we strongly urge them to take into consideration the interests of other members of the public. The pavement is not a suitable place for holding protests. Protesters should consider using a venue which will not cause inconvenience and unnecessary obstruction to the public.
We are disappointed that the protesters have re-erected the banners on the pavement. Further warnings to remove them have been issued. If they continue to ignore our warnings, appropriate action will be considered.
On a personal note, I would like to clarify comments attributed to me in your November 17 report.
A management office in Western district reported to police that a number of residents had complained about obstructions and nuisance caused by the protesters. Police had the responsibility to take follow-up action, including interviewing residents. These are normal police procedures.
Your reporter was told that residents were never asked to sign any letter or document. However, if a complaint was made, it would be recorded. So far, seven complaints have been recorded.
WONG DOON-YEE
for Commissioner of Police
