Secretary for Justice Rimsky Yuen says irrespective of their political motives or opinions, people must express their views in a lawful manner, and unlawful violence is not an appropriate way to express political demands.
Mr Yuen told reporters today that the Department of Justice is concerned about the Mong Kok riot and will work closely with the Police and scrutinise the evidence.
He said 37 people were charged with rioting yesterday and will appear in court on April 7, while another three will be charged with rioting today.
Mr Yuen noted that "rioting" has been clearly defined in the Public Order Ordinance, adding that the rioting charges were brought in accordance with the Prosecution Code and did not involve any political considerations.
