Hong Kong: Teen protester shot by police will face criminal charges

Amidst the violent demonstrations in Hong Kong, police authorities shot an 18-year-old at close range in the chest on October 2. Police authorities reported the next day that criminal charges will be filed against the teen protester who is also the first victim of police gunfire in the pro-democracy movement. Reportedly, the recent days have been the most violent ones in the months-long protests with the raging anger towards the police. The officials have already been accused of being insensitive against the demonstrators. 

Read: Hong Kong Police Slammed As ‘trigger-happy’ After Teen Shooting

Charges against the teen

The teen, Tsang Chi-kin was shot by the police on the left side of his chest with a pistol after he struck the official with a metal rod. According to the government, Tsang's condition was stable after surgery. A police statement said that the youth will be charged on the afternoon of October 3 with two charges of attacking the police. However, the appearance of the teen in court is uncertain. After the shooting, thousands of people flooded the streets to demand accountability from the police. During multiple protests, the police officials have fired warning shots in the air, however, this is the first time reports of a protester being shot. In the dramatic escalation of protests that took place on Tuesday, officers also drew their weapons including the ones who pointed pistols with blood on their faces.

Read: Protests Break Out In Hong Kong On China's National Day, 1 Shot

Anti-China Campaign

These protests also happened during the same time as the Chinese communist leaders celebrated 70 years of their rule with a grand military parade. Hong Kong Chief Executive, Carrie Lam along with a delegation of Hong Kong officials and dignitaries were also a part of the massive celebrations. Meanwhile, thousands of people rallied on the streets across the city as the largest number of simultaneous protests since the demonstrations began in June.

The protesters fear that Hong Kong's freedom and other citizen rights are being violated. The movement which started due to the fear has now developed into an anti-Chinese campaign with demands of direct elections. The protesters want to choose their city's leader and hold police accountable for their actions. 

Read: Hong Kong: Anti-Beijing Protester Shot In Chest On China National Day

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