Eight pro-democracy activists residing in various Western countries are now facing lifelong pursuit by Hong Kong authorities for alleged national security violations. Chief Executive John Lee announced this decision on Tuesday, emphasizing the government's unwavering commitment to pursuing these individuals regardless of their location. He defended the move against international criticism, asserting that similar extraterritorial powers exist in other nations' security laws.
The activists, including former lawmakers Nathan Law, Ted Hui, and Dennis Kwok, lawyer Kevin Yam, unionist Mung Siu-tat, and activists Finn Lau, Anna Kwok, and Elmer Yuen, are accused of offenses like colluding with foreign powers and inciting secession under the national security law implemented in 2020. Over 260 individuals have been arrested under this law, but this marks the first time bounties of $127,600 have been offered for information leading to arrests.
The United States and Britain have expressed strong concerns, viewing the extraterritorial application of the law as a dangerous precedent that threatens human rights. Australia also voiced deep concern over the warrants. Despite this international pressure, Lee maintained that the government will not be deterred from its course of action.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee speaks during a news conference in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong's Secretary for Security, Chris Tang, reinforced the government's stance, stating that authorities aim to restrict the activists' access to finances by freezing and confiscating their assets. Investigations are underway to identify those providing financial support to the activists both within Hong Kong and abroad. Tang warned that anyone aiding these individuals risks violating the national security law.
Despite the pressure, the activists remain defiant. Nathan Law, speaking from Britain, acknowledged the renewed targeting but vowed not to surrender, asserting the legitimacy of his advocacy work. Kevin Yam, in Australia, expressed that the move wasn't entirely unexpected, highlighting the authorities' expanding focus on dissenters abroad. Mung Siu-tat pledged to continue his advocacy for Hong Kong labor rights, while Anna Kwok reiterated her call to bar Lee from attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings in the U.S.
Hong Kong police have acknowledged the difficulty of arresting individuals overseas. Meanwhile, pro-Beijing lawmaker Eunice Yung, daughter-in-law of one of the activists, reiterated her disassociation from him and expressed support for the police action.
