The Department of Justice today welcomed the High Court's judgment in respect of three injunction applications concerning the obstruction of certain roads in Mong Kok and at the entrance and exit of CITIC Tower, and the exposition of the concept of the rule of law in the judgment.
The department urged those who are still breaching the injunction orders to respect the rule of law.
The department noted that the judgment instructed the bailiff to take all reasonable and necessary steps to clear and remove the obstructions. Bailiffs are authorised and directed to ask for Police assistance where necessary.
The judgment also authorised Police officers to arrest and remove anyone who obstructs or interferes with the bailiffs as they carry out their duties, provided that they have been informed of the gist of the court order. Anyone the Police arrest should be brought before the court as soon as practicable for further directions.
The department said the Police are willing and ready to provide such assistance to enforce the injunction orders.
Attempts to obstruct bailiffs in their execution of duties may constitute criminal contempt, a common law offence. The Secretary for Justice may consider taking appropriate action against people charged with criminal contempt.
The department said it fully understands that people have different views on Hong Kong's constitutional development, but that people should act in accordance with the law and comply with court orders irrespective of their views. Otherwise, they would damage the rule of law.
