2014-10-15 18:51:00

Hong Kong police accused of excessive force against pro-democracy protesters


(Vatican Radio) The Hong Kong police department is investigating reports that officers used excessive force against pro-democracy protesters.

There was widespread condemnation after officers were seen beating up one handcuffed activist after they tried to dislodge pro-democracy protesters from a road near government buildings.

 

Listen to the report by correspondent Alastair Wanklyn (text below): 

 

SOUNDS  OF POLICE WHISTLE WITH YELLS

 

Police tried to storm a protest stronghold set up in a highway underpass.

 

They tore into barricades, knocking down activists.

 

SOUND OF WOMAN'S  SCREAMS

 

Officers were seen dragging one handcuffed protester around a corner, then kicking him as he lay on the ground.

 

SOUND OF MAN BEING BEATEN UP

 

That assault sparked outrage among pro-democracy sympathizers. One lawmaker said Hong Kong's police had gone "insane, carrying out punishment in private."

 

China's Communist leaders appear to show no sign of meeting the protesters' demands for greater choice in elections for leader.

 

Publicly, Beijing has maintained some distance by relying on Hong Kong's own authorities to decide how to handle the protests.

 

But Beijing is increasingly vocal. One of its envoys in Hong Kong is quoted telling legislators there the protests have become a "serious social incident".

 

And an editorial in a leading state newspaper called the protests "illegal," "bad for business," and proof that "stability is bliss."

 

For Vatican Radio, Alastair Wanklyn reporting

 

 

 

 

 

 

 








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