Commissioner of Police Stephen Lo has called for protests set for when the Legislative Council votes on the Government's political reform proposal, to be conducted peacefully and lawfully.
He made the plea today saying Police will deploy sufficient manpower and equipment to handle protests during the voting period.
He said Police have received applications from several parties to conduct processions and public meetings during the period. A Letter of No Objection has not been issued yet.
He called on protesters not to violate the law or affect other people’s rights.
“I have full confidence in the Police in maintaining public order and safety irrespective of the development of any public order event. Protecting the lives and properties of the citizens of Hong Kong is always one of our core duties. So irrespective of which group of citizens is under threat, we will do our best to protect their lives and properties.
“But at the same time, we have to respect the freedom of speech and freedom of expression of other people. So if they do it in a peaceful and legal manner, we will assist them to express their views. But if they do it illegally or protest in a violent or radical way, hurting other people, then we will enforce the law.”
