As the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square on June 4th approaches, Hong Kong police have taken measures to ensure security around.
Increased Security Measures by Hong Kong Police
Hong Kong police have intensified security measures in preparation for the June 4th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square. A tactical unit has been deployed to patrol Victoria Park, where past vigils have taken place. Officers from this unit were observed on Sunday as part of a larger contingent stationed around Causeway Bay. The increased police presence aims to maintain order and prevent any potential disturbances during the commemoration.
Residents Questioned and Belongings Searched
During the heightened security operations, Hong Kong police have taken some residents away for questioning. In one instance, two women were detained after their belongings were searched. One of the women, wearing a yellow mask and black shirt, had a small card with the word “conscience” written in Chinese. This incident highlights the police’s focus on maintaining tight control over the area and screening individuals who may be associated with protests or unauthorized activities.
Curiosity Leads to Police Search
A man named Pang, aged 35, experienced a search by the police after he took pictures of the police vehicles out of curiosity. This incident illustrates the authorities’ vigilance in ensuring the security of the area. While the man was not detained, it demonstrates the police’s thorough approach to maintaining control and preventing potential disturbances during this sensitive period.
Arrests Made for Carrying Seditious Materials
In a separate development, the police announced the arrests of several individuals on the previous day. The suspects were detained for carrying seditious materials, indicating the authorities’ commitment to suppressing any subversive activities that might arise in connection with the anniversary. The Hong Kong government has been increasingly strict in its enforcement of the national security law imposed by Beijing.
Political Activist Held in Solitary Confinement
Frances Hui, a political activist, reported that Chow Hang-tung, a former member of the now-disbanded Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, has been placed in solitary confinement. Chow had staged a 34-hour hunger strike as a form of protest. She is currently serving a 4½-month prison sentence for refusing to cooperate with a police investigation into the alliance’s alleged violations of the national security law. Chow’s confinement and pending trial underline the government’s hardline stance on dissenting voices.
Mixed Opinions on Commemoration
Executive Council member Ronny Tong Ka-wah advised Hongkongers to refrain from organizing any commemorative activities for the time being. While acknowledging everyone’s right to mark such events, Tong emphasized the importance of maintaining stability and peace in Hong Kong. He called for unity among Chinese people to protect the country from external political threats.
In contrast, Bishop Stephen Chow Sau-yan of the Catholic diocese of Hong Kong expressed his prayers and described June 4th as a thought-provoking day for many residents. This difference in opinion reflects the diverse views within the community regarding the commemoration of the Tiananmen Square.
Victoria Park Carnival
Victoria Park, the usual site of the annual vigil, is currently hosting a three-day carnival organized by 26 pro-Beijing groups. The event, which celebrates the 26th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to Chinese rule, offers traditional snacks, folk art performances, music, and dancing. This initiative serves as an alternative gathering and aims to divert attention from the June 4th anniversary, focusing on the reunification of Hong Kong with China instead.
As the June 4th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square approaches, Hong Kong police have deployed a counterterrorism unit and increased security measures to ensure a peaceful environment. The questioning of residents, arrests for carrying seditious materials, and conflicting opinions on commemoration demonstrate the complexities surrounding this highly sensitive event. With different voices advocating for stability, peace, and remembrance, the people of Hong Kong navigate the delicate balance between honoring the past and conforming to the authorities’ expectations.
