Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


Hong Kong Police Call Protests 'Illegal and Irrational'

VOA News

   Hong Kong police sharply criticized anti-government protesters for
   besieging their headquarters but refrained from using force to disperse
   them, in a contrast to the violence that erupted in the city last week.

   The protesters ended their overnight siege of the police headquarters
   building Saturday morning, leaving peacefully after a night of throwing
   eggs and drawing graffiti on the walls of the complex.

   "Police have shown the greatest tolerance to the protesters who
   assembled outside PHQ, but their means of expressing views have become
   illegal, irrational and unreasonable," a police statement said.

   Hong Kong police were criticized for using force last week, when they
   sprayed tear gas and shot rubber bullets at protesters. The violence
   left dozens injured on both sides.

   Demonstrators are demanding the full withdrawal of a controversial
   extradition bill and the resignation of the territory's pro-Beijing
   leader Carrie Lam.

.