LettersHong Kong protesters’ extreme actions can no longer be condoned

The current chaos in Hong Kong was sparked by the extradition bill introduced by our chief executive. Fearing that the bill would infringe on their freedom, people took to the streets. The protests started out rational but after the government announced the suspension of the bill, the demonstrations should have stopped.

However, the protesters were not satisfied with the government’s response and continued their agitation. When the police began to use tear gas and rubber bullets, the protesters responded by coming prepared with helmets, gas masks and makeshift shields. They began to resort to extreme behaviour, such as blocking roads with metal barricades and protesting late into the night. Internet users began to attack the police online, digging up information about them, making it public and also ridiculing them.

The protesters’ actions have become unacceptable. Even when there are repeated calls for their dispersal, few pay attention and most dig their heels in. In recent protests, some have aimed laser pointers at police officers’ eyes, destroyed public property and painted graffiti, causing a ruckus everywhere they go. While I agree that Hongkongers have the right to demonstrate, is the protesters’ behaviour effective?

Some lawmakers have accused the police of using excessive force, but the protesters refuse to disperse if force is not used. Both the police and the protesters have to bear responsibility for recent events.

I hope the protesters will not persist with violent means. Meanwhile, other people should not clash with the protesters. We should blame neither the government nor the police. Rather, we should communicate peacefully and rationally to solve our problems.