Unlawful rally turns radical in Hong Kong

In view of the possible chaos in the area, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced the early closure of some of its facilities such as swimming pool and stadium in Yuen Long on Saturday.

Businesses were also affected, as most shops in the area have to shut doors by early Saturday afternoon because of the unauthorized rally.

The city's Chief Secretary for Administration Matthew Cheung Kin-chung on Friday called on people to express their views in a peaceful manner.

He added that people who participate in unauthorized rallies faced the risk of being arrested for illegal assembly, an offense punishable by a fine of HK$5,000 ($640) and up to five years in prison.

Saturday's procession was planned on the back of violent attacks on commuters on the train and at Yuen Long station on Sunday, which sparked anger by what some saw as an inadequate police response. At least 45 people were injured in the attacks.