HK police chief rejects allegations protesters being sent to mainland

In his first appearance at a District Council meeting after taking the top job, Commissioner of Police Chris Tang Ping-keung rejected allegations that police are sending arrested protesters to the mainland.

Tang also expressed regret that some District Council members vented their anger at him instead of having constructive discussions.

The police commissioner attended the meeting of the Central and Western District Council on Thursday afternoon. He had wanted to brief the new councilors on recent police operations and hear questions raised by District Council members.

Talking to reporters after the meeting, Tang firmly rejected allegations that some councilors made. These included suggestions that officers are sending arrested Hong Kong demonstrators across the border and are allowing mainland officers to work with SAR law enforcers.

Tang said such accusations are ridiculous and groundless, adding that he is very concerned that such comments are being made. He added that the majority of councilors only vented their emotions at him during the meeting.

Tang also revealed that rioters had taken away 52.8 kilometers of public metal railings and also a huge number of road tiles — enough for three Hong Kong stadiums. Police also have found over 10,000 bomb components on university campuses.

He urged the district councilors to set an example and condemn violent acts. Tang said District Councils were the closest platform to local residents, and thus they have an important role to play in communicating with the public.