Police said Monday they had booked five Chinese nationals in relation to intensifying clashes between university students over pro-Hong Kong movements.

The chief of Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency Lee Yong-pyo said that the students were booked on suspicion of property damage.

“Seven complaints have been by five universities in Seoul, and five Chinese students have been booked as a result,” Lee said during a press conference. He stated further arrests may follow upon examination of witness statements and security camera footage.

Lee added the police were currently investigating an assault case concerning a standoff between the pro-Hong Kong protesters and Chinese students.

Lee stated the police would notify the Immigration Office if the suspects are found guilty of criminal offenses. The immigration office will decide on whether to deport them, based on the immigration control law.

According to Lee, police only deal with on-campus issues when complaints are filed or official reports are made. The authorities may inspect the campus at the request of the schools.

By Choi Ji-won  (jwc@heraldcorp.com)