A deterrence to potential rioters
There were news reports on Monday that as many as 1,500 riot police will be at the ready to respond to any emergency situation during the Chinese New Year holidays, just in case a recurrence of last year’s riot in Mong Kok happens. Although the Hong Kong Police Force has not confirmed it, the news should lend people some peace of mind, knowing that law enforcement authorities are fully prepared to prevent any violent outburst like the Mong Kok riot from happening again. We are confident our police officers can and will protect the public from any criminal harassment during the most important holiday of the year.
The police department was caught by surprise when a small number of hooligans organized by separatist radical groups mounted a very violent riot in Mong Kok, using as an excuse a “protest” against the government ban on street food carts without a license. It was a premeditated and well-prepared act designed to “shock and awe” the public as well as the government. We have every reason to believe the separatist radical groups might try it again this year, especially after the all-round defeat they suffered in the past year. And we support wholeheartedly the police’s efforts in maintaining law and order during the festive season.
The SAR government and the police in particular enjoy overwhelming public support in stepping up security measures to ensure a happy and peaceful holiday season. That is why local residents can rest assured the police will do their best to keep them safe from criminal disturbances. Therefore we call upon and warn anyone who may plan to cause trouble for political or any other reason not to take that risk, because the judiciary will no doubt be much tougher on them if they break the same laws again after last year’s “surprise”. Considering the fact that local courts have heard many cases of offenses committed by Mong Kok riot participants a year ago and given the suspects punishments they deserve, it is safe to believe justice will only strike harder next time.
Criminal justice is always focused on deterrence and prevention, which is why punishment for repeat offenders is heavier than for first-timers, without exception. Earlier this month, several Mong Kok rioters were found guilty of and punished for offenses such as criminal vandalism and attempted assault with deadly objects. This should help let potential rioters know in advance they will be dealt with more harshly if they play copycat this time around.