China dismisses consul general, 5 employees for assaulting Hong Kong demonstrator at consulate in Manchester, say reports

Following backlash from diplomats, the Chinese government has removed six officials, including the consul general Zheng Xiyuan, who were responsible for allegedly beating the Hong Kong pro-democracy protestor Bob Chan. Bob, who was protesting outside the Manchester consulate in October was pulled to the ground and beaten up by the staff, according to reports.

As confirmed by Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, the Chinese government was given a deadline of December 14 to waive the diplomatic immunity of all the six people involved in the incident. However, the consul general has already returned to China.

What was the incident all about?

A picture and a few videos of Zheng Xiyuan pulling Chan's hair before the Chinese officials beat him inside the Manchester consulate appeared, which evoked objections from British diplomats. Chan was then rescued after the intervention of a British police officer, who pulled him out of the gates. However, Chan was already left with injuries to his body and face.

What did Zheng Xiyuan say in his defence?

In his statement to the media, Zheng Xiyuan first said that he did not beat anybody, but later on confirmed the incident, citing the reason that Bob Chan was abusing China and its leader. The matter is being investigated by Greater Manchester Police in the UK.

FAQs:

1. Why did the Chinese consul general and others beat Hong Kong pro-democracy protestor?
   As per the Chinese consul general Zheng Xiyuan, the incident happened because Bob Chan was abusing China and its leaders.
2. Where did this incident take place?
   The entire incident of the Chinese consul general beating the Hong Kong pro-democracy protestor Bob Chan happened inside the Manchester consulate.