Dozens injured as police, protesters clash in Hong Kong
Smoke rises as rioters set fires on a street in Mong Kok district of Hong Kong, Tuesday. Pic: AP.
by 9th February 2016
WHAT began as a government crackdown on illegal food stalls in Hong Kong’s famous Mong Kok district quickly spiraled into a full-scale riot during the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Hong Kong’s Lunar New Year celebration descended into chaotic scenes as protesters and police clashed over a street market selling fish balls and other local holiday delicacies. Twitter users, many of them sympathetic to the protesters, called the event the#FishballRevolution.
Activists angered over authorities’ attempts to crack down on the food hawkers in a crowded Kowloon neighborhood held running battles with police into the early hours of Tuesday.
Protesters threw bricks, lengths of wood and other pieces of junk at officers and set fires on the street. Hong Kong authorities responded aggressively, prompting accusations of police brutality.
Police said 23 people were arrested after vehicles were damaged and 48 officers were injured. Posts on social media also showed a number of injured protesters and journalists.
Police said they fired warning shots during the rioting in an attempt to disperse the crowds.
