Hong Kong 1956 riots

The Hong Kong 1956 riots were the result of escalating provocations between pro-Nationalist and pro-Communist factions in Hong Kong during Double Ten Day, 10 October 1956.

Most violence took place in the town of Tsuen Wan, five miles from central Kowloon. A mob stormed and ransacked a clinic and welfare centre, killing four people. Some foreigners became involved, including a taxi on Nathan Road that was fired upon, resulting in the death of a Swiss national.

To quell the rioting, Colonial Secretary Edgeworth B. David ordered extra manpower from the British Forces Hong Kong, including armoured troops of 7th Hussars, to reinforce the Hong Kong Police on dispersing all rioters. In total, there were 59 deaths and approximately 500 injuries. Property damage was estimated at US$ $1,000,000.

In the subsequent trials four people were convicted of murder and given death penalties.