HK police on airport violence: Officer drawing pistol is correct and lawful

Hong Kong police have strongly condemned the radical protests staged on Tuesday at the Hong Kong International Airport, vowing to strictly enforce the law and fully investigate the illegal violent actions.

The Hong Kong Police Headquarters. [File Photo: IC]

Assaulting people and blocking rescue work at the airport are "extremely violent acts," Hong Kong police said during a press conference on Wednesday.

Accusations that police officers were trying to kill protesters are groundless, said Assistant Commissioner of Police Mak Chin-ho, adding that an officer drawing his pistol was correct and lawful.

"A police officer tried to pursue violent protesters but he was cornered and beaten up. His baton and pepper spray were taken away," Mak told the reporters.

"When his life was at risk, he had to draw his pistol to protect himself," he stressed.

An officer drawing his pistol to protect himself is "100 percent correct, lawful and rational," he added.