Hong Kong protests: mainland Chinese student faces jail after pleading guilty to possessing offensive weapon in public place
- University of Hong Kong music student Chen Zimou, 24, admits carrying an extendable baton in Sheung Wan on night of July 28
- Defendant had told police he carried the weapon, which when fully extended was 78cm long, because he feared being assaulted on the street
The first mainland Chinese person charged in connection with the ongoing protests in Hong Kong pleaded guilty in court on Thursday to possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.
Student Chen Zimou, 24, admitted he carried an extendable baton in Sheung Wan on the night of July 28. At the time, a large number of protesters had occupied roads near Beijing’s liaison office in Hong Kong, after an authorised assembly in Central ended.
Chongqing native Chen, who is majoring in music at the University of Hong Kong, said under caution he carried the baton, which measured 78cm in length when fully extended, for self-defence as he feared being assaulted on the street despite not taking part in any protest, West Kowloon Court heard.
He also said he wore a yellow reflective vest to dress like a journalist to avoid being attacked.
Acting Chief Magistrate Peter Law Tak-chuen ordered Chen be remanded in custody while the court awaited background and detention centre reports before sentence was passed on November 7.
