Hong Kong Protesters: 'Prepared To Die' For The Cause

Core Hong Kong Protesters 'Prepared To Die For Their Cause' During Riots

A core group of radical protesters who led the violent siege of Hong Kong's legislature on Monday were willing to die for their cause as martyrs, according to SCMP. 

Approximately ten 'diehards' with a 'bring it on' attitude had no qualms about facing police batons, rubber bullets or worse, as they broke into and trashed the Legislative Council building. 

"The protesters at the front were willing to sacrifice themselves. They turned so violent, hoping police would use aggressive force against them or shoot them with rubber bullets or beanbag rounds," said SCMP's source, adding "If the individuals were badly injured or even killed, all the blame would have been placed on police so as to spark global condemnation, and eventually bring the whole administration down." 

Hong Kong leadership expects the radical group to organize future protests in order to spark future clashes with the police that may lead to their desired outcome. 

They were among the dozens of protesters against the government’s now-suspended extradition bill who had already been identified and would be the target of a police operation to arrest those responsible.

The Post was told that officers from the Organised Crime and Triad Bureau were also trying to identify those behind this group. -SCMP

Hong Kong police made their first arrest on Wednesday after searching for those who used makeshift battering rams to smash the glass in front of the legislature - many of whom were wearing masks to avoid identification. 

Another source said police were trying to identify hundreds of protesters both inside and outside the Legco building during the 11-hour siege who dispersed when officers in riot gear moved in, using tear gas.

No one was arrested during the one-hour clearance operation, and those occupying the Legco chamber had already fled. -SCMP

According to SCMP's source, police will next turn their efforts to less violent protesters, whether or not they were involved in vandalism. 

"They broke the law as they attended an unlawful assembly. If it is classified as a riot in future, they may also face the charge of taking part in riot," said the source. 

The Monday siege of the Hong Kong Legislative Council made worldwide headlines, as mostly young protesters raged against an extradition bill which would have allowed the transfer of fugitives to mainland China and other places with which Hong Kong has no extradition arrangements.