Police are politically neutral

September 20, 2019

Police Public Relations Branch Chief Superintendent Tse Chun-chung: 
About the Lennon walls, over the past three months, we have seen many citizens express their views by posting sticky notes in public spaces or on walls of pedestrian walkways. 

While we respect citizens' freedom of expression, it is clear that such locations are at risk of giving rise to clashes, scuffles and even street fights. As a matter of fact, between June to September 20, there have been 40 criminal cases occurring at these sticky notes walls. We have arrested 57 people for offences like criminal damage, fighting in public place, common assault and wounding. 

We are politically neutral and will not consider one's background, social status and political stance when enforcing the law. We appeal to all members of the public to adopt peaceful and rational means of expression.

Police Superintendent (Operations) Fang Chi-kin:
For public processions, if the participants are anticipated to be more than 30 people, there is a requirement for organisers to notify Police. 

For public meetings, if the number of participants is expected to be over 50, the organisers should do the same to notify the Commissioner of Police. That is the requirement of the law.

Police today said they are politically neutral and will not consider one's background, social status and political stance when enforcing the law.

Speaking at a press conference in the afternoon, Police Public Relations Branch Chief Superintendent Tse Chun-chung expressed concerns over incidents related to Lennon walls.

Mr Tse said citizens in the past three months have expressed their views by posting sticky notes in public spaces or on walls of pedestrian walkways.

"While we respect citizens' freedom of expression, it is clear that such locations are at risk of giving rise to clashes, scuffles and even street fights."

Between June and September 20, Mr Tse said 40 criminal cases occurred at these locations. Police arrested 57 people for offences such as criminal damage, fighting in public place, common assault and wounding.

He said: “We are politically neutral and will not consider one's background, social status and political stance when enforcing the law.

"We appeal to all members of the public to adopt peaceful and rational means of expression."