The Police today condemned the violent acts by public meeting participants who tried to enter the Central Government Offices by force yesterday.
During the meeting, a few participants suddenly climbed onto the fence surrounding the East Wing Forecourt, followed by others.
After entering the forecourt, some people pushed over barriers, shoved police officers and charged the police cordon line.
Officers had no choice but to use OC Foam after repeated warnings to stop such acts which showed disregard for public safety and public order.
So far, police have arrested 12 men and a woman, aged between 16 and 35, for forcible entry into Government premises, disorderly conduct in a public place, assaulting a police officer and other offences.
At least four police officers and 11 staff and security personnel were injured.
The Police reiterated that it respects the public's freedom of expression, speech and assembly and always handles public meetings, processions and demonstrations in a fair, just and impartial manner in accordance with the laws of Hong Kong.
