Updated 14 September 2019
US Department of State and Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Travel
Warnings: As of 14 September 2019, there are travel warnings to Hong Kong.
FCO warnings regarding planned protests this weekend, including possible delays caused
at Hong Kong International Airport.
Situation:
Hong Kong rolled into its 15th consecutive week of protests with several clashes breaking
out between pro-Beijing groups and pro-democracy groups on Thursday and Friday.
Shopping centers have become hotspots for protesters as the mall of the IFC, and various
other malls in areas including Sham Shui Po, Causeway Bay and Yuen Long, saw gatherings
of protesters singing Glory To Hong Kong and to continue to demand that all five key
demands be met.
Clashes between opposing groups on Friday in Amoy Plaza shopping mall in Kowloon Bay
had to be broken up by police. Several people were bloodied in altercations.
On Sunday, September 15:
Planned gathering outside British Consulate General in Admiralty at noon. Purpose is to encourage British to take action ensuring that China honors 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration affecting Hong Kong’s autonomy.
Civil Human Rights Front planned a march from East Point Road in Causeway Bay to Chater Road starting at 3 pm, which was banned by police. CHRF has since filed an appeal. Highly possible that the march will happen even if ban isn’t lifted.
Map of possible march route:
Possible Effects:
Likelihood of escalations in actions, protests and demonstrations from both protesters and law enforcement
Disrupted modes of transportation
Increased presence of law enforcement personnel and an increased willingness to use force against protesters
Increases in traffic, especially near protest sites
Roads blocked by protestors with little to no notice
Blockades placed by police beforehand
Protests which have the possibility of turning violent, especially after dark
Mitigating Factors to Apply:
Avoid all protests, demonstrations, and large crowds, which have the possibility of turning violent
Avoid discussing political topics in public or on social media
Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
If you are caught in a blockade:
Remain calm
Do not exit your vehicle
Call the authorities
Emergency Services (police, fire, and medical): 999
British Consulate-General at +(825) 2901 3000
Allow extra time for travel
Monitor local and social media for updates
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless
Disclaimer: LSDS gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.
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