Four arrested in scuffles during clearance of village farmland for Hong Kong new-town development
60 security guards turn up at Fanling to reclaim community farm site
Four villagers and protesters were arrested in scuffles with workers on Monday morning as Henderson Land tried to reclaim a piece of farmland in Fanling that is part of a new-town redevelopment plan in northeast New Territories.
A group of villagers outside the sealed-off area then tore down a section of wire fence and charged past the guards just before 10am, leading to a tense stand-off.
The security guards finally took action at 11am, as they forcefully removed emotional villagers one by one from the site, leading to more rowdy scenes.
Local people accused the workers of using excessive force, showing reporters bruises on their arms and legs.
Villager Becky Au Hei-man said her father and two others – a man and a woman – were arrested for suspected criminal damage. Another 27-year-old man was detained on a charge of obstructing a police officer.
Around 20 protesters later arrived at Sheung Shui police station to call for their release. All walked free after 5pm.