Protesters are shown outside the Apple Daily building in Tseung Kwan O. At right, a copies of the High Court restraining order lie torn on the ground. Photos: Apple Daily, Ming Pao
Protesters defy High Court order, regroup for Apple Daily siege
Protesters are back outside the Apple Daily building in Tseung Kwa O despite a restraining order from the High Court.
They regrouped Tuesday night after briefly clearing out of the area when the order was served and are continuing their siege of the compound, Apple Daily reported Wednesday.
About 400 protesters were camped Wednesday morning outside the building, bussed in by protest organizers believed to be opponents of Jimmy Lai, the outspoken founder of the newspaper who is also a key figure in the ongoing democracy movement.
A copy of the restraining order issued by the High Court Tuesday was seen torn on the ground.
And some policemen were heard telling the protesters they had the right to ignore it, according to the the report.
A police spokesman told a press conference Tuesday that the officers were there only to maintain order.
The protesters blocked entrances to the building, preventing Apple Daily from delivering newspapers on Sunday and Monday and part of Tuesday.
On Wednesday, they vowed to step up their action if Apple made any deliveries.
The protesters are liable to contempt of court and may be arrested if they continue to disobey the restraining order, the report said, citing legal experts.
Apple Daily’s next step might be to apply for arrest warrants. It could also sue the protesters for intimidation and endangerment of workers, they said.
Meanwhile, reports said some of the demonstrators are gang members, including several from Shenzhen, who are being paid up to HK$1,000 (US$129) a day.
Their orders are to block entrances to the Apple Daily complex, the reports said.
– Contact us at english@hkej.com
TL/AC/RA
http://www.ejinsight.com/20141015-protesters-defy-high-court-order-regroup-for-apple-daily-siege/
