Police are determined to, and capable of, maintaining public order, Police Public Relations Branch Chief Superintendent Steve Hui says, calling on people not to justify unlawful behaviour with excuses.
Speaking at a press conference this afternoon, Mr Hui said Police assisted bailiffs in executing injunction orders in Mong Kok and had used other powers conferred by the law to clear obstacles at various locations yesterday and today.
He refuted accusations officers had not given enough warning before taking action and used unnecessary force. He said repeated appeals and warnings were made through announcements and the display of banners, and adequate time was given for the illegal occupiers to leave the streets, but they refused to comply.
He noted some people are arguing that Portland Street is not covered by the injunction order and have called on more protesters to occupy roads in Mong Kok and to put up a strong resistance against police enforcement action. Such behaviour is irresponsible and full of twisted facts, he said, adding they are trying to distract others from the fact they were engaged in an unlawful assembly.
He said Police will continue to take resolute action to maintain order and stop people from illegally occupying reopened streets or other sections of roads.
