Hong Kong protests: police to deploy 2,000 officers as key anniversary looms
- Online appeals call for people to gather in Causeway Bay and Mong Kok on Saturday
- Weekend marks second anniversary of clash between police and protesters at Legislative Council complex
One source said about 1,000 officers would be placed on Hong Kong Island as authorities brace for potential trouble around Causeway Bay, with online posts calling on people to take to the streets at 7pm on Saturday.
“When we are on the same street, we all naturally know what to do,” one Instagram post said. Along with the post was a picture of crowds of protesters jamming the streets, with some holding a banner that read, “Reclaim Hong Kong”.
Another Instagram post featured a drawing of a group of black-clad protesters, with some wearing Guy Fawkes masks, or holding a shield, black flag, or a bow and arrow. On the picture was the message: “June 12, 7pm, Causeway Bay. Hong Kong people. Gather again. Be water.”
On the Kowloon side, a group called Student Politicism posted a message on Telegram asking people to gather in Mong Kok at 7pm. It also asked participants to “be well equipped to deal with any violence” and “plan the retreat routes ahead”.