“Are these violent protesters really legitimate protesters”
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Some have indeed done violent things. I believe they got tired of hoping that peaceful protests (in the millions) will have an impact.
The cops, like the HK govt itself, are under the control of the Chinese Communist Party and by every account I’ve heard/read count “People’s Liberation Army” soldiers in their ranks. The HK police used to be considered “Asia’s Finest”, but never again will they see that title due to their actions.
I have little doubt that the protestors will get the Tienanmen Square treatment. They will all either end up dead or in prison camp. You can’t take on the PLA and win - at least not in HK.
There’s not much that can be done to save them outside of a govt collapse in Beijing. Like the movie says, “it’s Chinatown”.
RE: I believe they got tired of hoping that peaceful protests (in the millions) will have an impact.
If these are real HK protesters, then resorting to violence to get their grievances heard is a tactic that will backfire.
Originally, we were all impressed at the orderly and peaceful protests from millions of citizens. I was even impressed when I saw how the crowds backed off when they saw an ambulance coming. The next day, we even saw pictures of protesters cleaning up the trash on the streets. *THIS* was the face of Hong Kong’s protest then.
It suddenly all changed when in July 2019 A mob of over 100 armed men dressed in white indiscriminately attacked civilians on the streets and passengers in the Yuen Long MTR station including the elderly, children, black-clad protesters, journalists and lawmakers. At least 45 people were injured in the incident, including a pregnant woman.
Up to now, we do not know the identity of these mobsters, but that was the catalyst that triggered the violence and vandalism we now see.
You lose the moral high ground if you resort to vandalism, violence and defacement of public property.
The majority of those who value law and order do not want to see this and this only gives the ChiComs a reason to clamp down Tien An Men style.
You are cutting your own throat in effect.
The HKers may need guns and weapons.
Also, this could spread to China. Chinese people aren’t in love with their local police and party bosses. They could be inspired to fight back.
It’s hard to know just how much the party is worried.