After protest-related attacks, Hong Kong students learn self-defence at Chinese University
- With homemade shields and foam sticks, attendees at campus class practise fending off attacks
- ‘Apart from protecting myself, I hope to protect those beside me as well,’ says one
Chants of “rioters” and “rogue cops” rang out from a crowd of dozens, accompanied by bashing sounds, at Chinese University on Tuesday evening.
While the scene was reminiscent of clashes between police and anti-government protesters during unrest which has rocked Hong Kong for months, it came from a self-defence class organised by the school’s student union.
The fifth in a series of free martial arts classes that began in early September, the workshop drew about two dozen participants to an open area on the campus.
While some protesters have resorted to increased violence at recent protests, such as throwing petrol bombs, the series of classes focuses on self-defence using common items such as umbrellas.
Even if you’re just sticking things on Lennon Walls, there may be people out to knife you
During Tuesday’s event, a male instructor taught attendees how to construct a makeshift shield from common materials such as cardboard, foam mats and duct tape.