Police today urged members of the public to avoid joining unauthorised assemblies and prohibited group gatherings.

The force said that an organiser had filed a notification to hold a public meeting and procession on Hong Kong Island this afternoon.

It regarded the public meeting and procession to be high-risk activities, adding that any group gatherings taking place during the ongoing pandemic can increase the risk of spreading COVID-19.

To maintain public order and safety, and protect the rights and freedom of others, Police had issued a letter of objection to the organiser.

The force reiterated that anyone participating in such events may be found guilty of taking part in an unauthorised assembly in accordance with the Public Order Ordinance and liable to a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment.

By engaging in such events, people may also violate the prohibition of group gatherings under the Prevention & Control of Disease (Prohibition on Group Gathering) Regulation, the force said.

Police stressed that they do not condone illegal acts and will take resolute action to enforce the law.

Additionally, such unauthorised assemblies and prohibited group gatherings will likely cause serious obstruction to traffic on Hong Kong Island, potentially leading to delays in emergency services, Police said.

The force will take into consideration different traffic conditions and implement temporary route diversions as well as traffic control measures accordingly.