Macau in an unprecedented lockdown ahead of Xi Jinping visit, as authorities suspend newly launched train service for ‘special security’ reasons
- Light Rapid Transit service in casino hub stopped temporarily, while stringent security checks in place for ferry passengers from Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Number 2 official says it is perfectly justified for man to be detained on mega bridge checkpoint and refused entry into Macau
Macau has been in an unprecedented lockdown ahead of President Xi Jinping’s visit on Wednesday, as authorities tightened security across the city and suspended part of its newly launched train service.
Xi is set to embark on his three-day visit to the casino hub on Wednesday to mark the 20th anniversary of its handover to Chinese rule, where he would also witness the swearing-in ceremony of officials from the new administration led by Ho Iat-seng, the former president of the city’s legislature.
At the China Ferry Terminal in Hong Kong, all luggage and bags of outbound passengers had to go through an X-ray machine before customs officers asked to open them again for a quick inspection.
Ferry sailings between Hong Kong and Macau have been reduced to every 30 minutes from Monday until Saturday, based on “instructions by Macau authorities”, according to ferry operator Turbojet.
In Macau, the newly launched Light Rapid Transit also announced trains for its Taipa line would be suspended from Wednesday afternoon to Friday for “special security arrangements”.
Long lines of cars were also seen queuing outside fuel stations in various districts in Macau after rumours circulated that fuel tankers would not be allowed on roads during the Chinese leader’s visit.