Many voices call for end to protest

19 arrested over clash in Hong Kong

HONG KONG - The Hong Kong police are acting in a professional and restrained manner in handling Occupy Central protests in spite of the huge pressure on their stamina and resolve, Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying said Thursday.

Speaking to the media, Leung said it has been a huge challenge for police to withstand continuous illegal activities, and yet they are continuing to handle their duties professionally and effectively, such as by re-opening Queensway to traffic without conflicting with protesters.

Leung said the protests have been disrupting traffic, social order and economic activities. Social resentment is rising, with some people taking matters into their own hands and trying to re- open roads themselves.

He said the government and police have the responsibility to uphold social order and enforce the law. The protests' negative impact cannot continue indefinitely, and the police will take appropriate actions at a suitable juncture, he added.

Speaking on an allegation that a protester was beaten by police officers, Leung said there are laws, policies and mechanisms to handle such cases, and he is against politicizing the incident.

He said Hong Kong needs the police to maintain law and order, and he urged the community to obey the law.