Secretary for Security TK Lai has urged protesters in Mong Kok to stop their unlawful assembly and occupation of roads and leave immediately, adding they must not obstruct Police from carrying out the court's injunction, and not charge at officers.
Mr Lai told reporters today Police provided assistance to remove obstacles at the bailiffs' request yesterday.
He said some protesters refused to leave and scuffled with officers despite repeated appeals and warnings. Police took swift action to disperse the crowd with minimum force.
Police have arrested 116 people for offences including unlawful assembly, assaulting and obstructing police, and possessing weapons. Seventeen have been charged and will appear in Kowloon City Magistracy today.
Twenty police officers have been injured during the site clearance.
On the arrest of a member of the media, Mr Lai said Police always provide assistance to reporters and will investigate and handle the case in an independent, fair and transparent manner.
