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Police have met with the plaintiffs of the Injunction Orders on the unlawful occupation of roads in Mong Kok and the bailiffs with regard to the execution of the orders. Police are ready to give the fullest support to the bailiffs to execute the court order on the carriageway of Argyle Street between the junction of Tung Choi Street and Portland Street in Mong Kok tomorrow (November 25).
The Court of First Instance earlier in its judgment authorised bailiffs to assist the plaintiff in removing obstructions and that the bailiffs could request the assistance of Police when necessary. The court further authorised Police to arrest those who obstruct the bailiffs in executing their duties.
Police emphasise that the bailiffs are authorised by the court to execute court orders. Any act amounts to obstruction may render one liable to the offence of "criminal contempt of court". If anyone obstructs or violently charges the bailiffs when they are executing their duties, Police will take resolute action. When necessary, Police will use other powers conferred by the law to preserve public order and public safety. Police will also reclaim government property, such as mills barriers and water barriers, which have been illegally taken by the illegal road occupiers.
In addition, Police have noticed that some people at the illegally occupied areas have prepared supplies to provoke others to put up resistance. There are also some people on the Internet claiming that they will re-occupy the cleared areas or other sections of roads after the bailiffs have completed the removal actions in order to continue with the illegal occupation. Police reiterate that we are duty bound to take resolute actions to preserve public order and safeguard public safety if anyone occupies new sections of roads or those that have been cleared.
Police point out that the illegally occupied area in Mong Kok remains a high-risk area and members of the public, especially students, should stay away from there. They should not mix with the radicals and troublemakers and be incited or used by others to commit any illegal acts. Parents should not bring children there as well to avoid any unnecessary injuries.
Police reiterate that the Injunction Orders are solemn orders issued by the court. Police urge the illegal road occupiers to obey the court orders, remove obstacles and personal belongings, and stop the illegal occupation soonest so that the roads can be re-opened and public order restored.
Ends/Monday, November 24, 2014
Issued at HKT 19:19
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