Hong Kong’s anti-parallel trade protesters managed to cause a small commotion at the Government House Open Day yesterday, with dozens removed and two arrested, but police remaining in control.
Earlier in the week calls had been made over the internet for the protesters – who have been widely condemned for their aggressive actions towards mainland visitors at recent rallies – to show up en masse at the annual event and block access while pretending to sell smuggled goods.
The police presence was heavy from early in the morning, and several visitors wearing anti-government t-shirts and carrying yellow umbrellas were denied access.
The few who did manage to sneak items inside the grounds of the colonial mansion were quickly escorted off site.
In total, 21 people were removed from the event and two were arrested for obstructing police officers.
CY Leung made a brief appearance to thank some of the 1,500 visitors, but did not take questions from the media.
Meanwhile, a group of pro-establishment demonstrators took the opportunity to march against the parallel trade protesters, walking from Charter Garden in Cenrtal to the government headquarters in Admiralty carrying banners in support of Hong Kong Chief Executive CY Leung.
They staged a symbolic eating of hot dogs, the nickname given to the followers of anti-government group Civic Passion.
Trust Hongkongers to find a way to protest and eat at the same time.
Photo: AFP
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