Protests went ahead on August 31 despite police objection. They besieged Hong Kong’s government and the Legislative Council building, placed flaming barricades on the streets, and threw gasoline bombs at the police.

When severe illegal acts take place, and safety and public security are under threat, the Hong Kong police should be assertive in ending violence and riots.

No matter whether in China or any other country, the police force has the right to make a decision facing extreme violence and control the situation in a tough way.

Since June, the Hong Kong police have faced bricks and iron bars from radical protesters, as well as smears and rumors from unscrupulous media. However, they responded with the utmost restraint and reason and only used the minimum level of force to control disorder, which makes Chinese people proud as well as heartbroken.

In sharp contrast, the protesters have injured hundreds of police officers with increasingly dangerous objects in a series of violent activities. Among the wounded, an off-duty policeman in Kwai Fong was attacked and stabbed by three protesters and had four fingers chopped off.

These defiant acts have threatened property and personal safety and have gone far beyond the bottom line of civil society.

Under such circumstances, the Hong Kong police have every right to respond with force, and take necessary measures to protect public order and security. Prompt decisions are needed on the spot, and any actions to stop violence are legal and reasonable.

The protesters have been warned against naivety. The 7 million Hong Kongers back the Hong Kong police alongside 1.4 billion Chinese people. They have various means to safeguard peace and stability, and they are determined to stop the violence. Those who underestimate the capabilities of law enforcement and their determination to stop violence will soon concede.