Violent clashes between police and protesters in Hong Kong on Monday night resulted in a journalist being harassed violently by the police. Despite showing his identification documents showing he is a journalist, he claims to have still been kicked and punched by officers.

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According to Hong Kong Free Press, violence broke out in Mong Kok when police officers cleared the street of hawkers during the celebration of Chinese New Year.

Tang, a journalist from Ming Pao, was allegedly attempting to board the bus on Nathan Road to cover the protest scene at around 3:45 a.m. At that time, police officers were already clearing the road. As per the request of the officers, Tang reportedly showed his press pass and left the bus.

However, he was pushed by police officers using long shields. After which, he was kicked and beaten with batons for around 15 seconds. This was all captured by Apple Daily. In the video, Tang can be heard shouting repeatedly that he is a journalist.

Tang suffered injuries on his back and hands, while the back of his head was bleeding, according to Ming Pao. More so, his glasses were shattered. He reportedly hailed a cab by himself and admitted himself to Kwong Wah Hospital in Yau Ma Tei where his head wound was treated and stitched.

In an interview with a local commercial radio programme on Wednesday, Tang said that he believed that the officers knew he was a journalist but still continued beating him. He said that he did not do anything to provoke violence on himself. He added that the officers were using unnecessary force.

Meanwhile, Ming Pao issued a statement expressing its disappointment with the event. The newspaper condemned the behaviour of the officers involved. An investigation has been demanded by the newspaper.

TagsMong Kok, Tang, clearing of hawkers, hawkers, Chinese New Year 2016, violence against journalist, journalist