Hong Kong Police Commissioner Stephen Lo has backed down from earlier characterizations of protests against a controversial extradition bill as “a riot,” clarifying in comments on June 17 evening that he was referring to only specific individuals suspected of violent behaviors.
On June 12, tens of thousands of Hong Kongers gathered near the city’s legislature to protest the bill, which would allow any country, including mainland China, to seek extradition of criminal suspects. In the afternoon, Hong Kong police tried to disperse the crowd by firing tear gas, rubber bullets, and bean bags at protesters, resulting in over 80 civilian injuries.
