UK reacts to Hong Kong protest shooting

By Ahmet Gurhan Kartal

LONDON (AA) - British government on Tuesday reacted to escalating incidents in its former overseas territory Hong Kong, urging immediate de-escalation from all sides.

“Whilst there is no excuse for violence, the use of live ammunition is disproportionate, and only risks inflaming the situation,” Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said.

Raab’s reaction came following reports that one protester was critically injured after live rounds were fired by security forces.

“This incident underlines the need for a constructive dialogue to address the legitimate concerns of the people of Hong Kong,” he said.

Raab said they need to “see restraint and a de-escalation from both protestors and the Hong Kong authorities.”

A protester was critically wounded after Hong Kong police opened fire on protesters in the semi-autonomous region under China’s rule on Tuesday during the ongoing anti-government protests, local media reported.

Demonstrations started early Tuesday while China was marking its National Day.

“A protester has been shot by a live round in Tsuen Wan,” HongKong Free Press reported.

Multiple videos from the protest site showed the 18-year-old victim bleeding profusely in the chest on Hoi Pa Street.

It is the first casualty due to a live bullet since mass protests erupted in early June against the Carrie Lam government to legalize the extradition of suspects to mainland China.

The bill to amend the extradition law was finally withdrawn on Sept. 4, but people are still upset and want Lam to meet other demands.