The Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) strongly condemned the extremists who threw the Chinese national flag into the sea, calling these acts an insult to the Chinese national flag and a serious challenge of national sovereignty.

Saturday afternoon, a large group of protesters deviated from the authorized rally route, blocking Nathan Road while marching towards Tsim Sha Tsui. Some removed roadside fences and set roadblocks at various major crossroads, seriously obstructing traffic. Over 20 protesters have been arrested for unlawful assembly and assault, said the Hong Kong police on Sunday.

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Hong Kong police condemn violent acts in Kowloon, over 20 arrested

All of these acts are far beyond peaceful protesting, the spokesperson said, condemning the acts for being another serious challenge to the “One Country, Two Systems” policy after the violent acts happened on July 21.

Such violent behaviors and openly provocative acts are seriously against the central government's authority, the statement said, urging lawful measures taken to safeguard the stability of the Hong Kong society and punish violent actions.

The spokesperson also reiterated central government's firm support to the Hong Kong SAR government and police forces in bringing the offenders to justice as soon as possible.