High Court denies interim injunction against anti-mask law
China Daily
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The High Court on Sunday rejected an application by 24 opposition lawmakers for an interim injunction order against the government's anti-mask law.

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Masked protesters clad in black take part in an illegal assembly in Hong Kong. (Photo: Agencies)

Written judgment for the refusal will be handed down on Tuesday while the full judicial review would be heard later this month. No definite date was given.

Government lawyer Benjamin Yu told the court the anti-mask law was necessary as violence and vandalism have posed a threat to public safety.

The violent acts of the protesters had abated on Saturday - the first day of the ban, showing that the effectiveness of the anti-mask law, said Yu.

The law, which took effect on Oct 5, bans people from wearing masks at any public meeting, gathering or procession.

Violator of the law faces a maximum prison term of one year and a fine of up to HK$25,000.