Four people were arrested on Wednesday on charges of aiding people who “threaten national security”, two days after Beijing-controlled Hong Kong authorities put out bounties against eight pro-democracy activists living in foreign countries.
According to a BBC report, those arrested also include Evan Lam, former chairman of the breakaway political party Demosisto founded by Nathan Law, a pro-democracy activist recently targeted by Hong Kong police bounty. This is yet another example of Hong Kong authorities suppressing any form of dissent in the self-autonomous territory.
These people were accused of conspiring with “external elements” to endanger national security and were also accused of acting with “seditious intent”. These crimes are punishable by life imprisonment under the National Security Law imposed by China.
Meanwhile, banners and flags of Mee, an online shopping application, were seized by police as the platform reportedly served as a guide for people supporting the pro-democracy movement at restaurants and shops.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee on Tuesday asserted that eight pro-democracy activists living abroad will be prosecuted for life in connection with alleged national security crimes. He also offered a reward of 1 million Hong Kong dollars for information leading to the capture of the activists.
The national security law was enacted in Hong Kong by Beijing in 2020, outlawing subversion, secession, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces. The move was seen as an easing of discontent in the semi-autonomous Chinese city since massive protests over the law in 2019.
On Wednesday, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed dismay and concern over the targeting of activists Kevin Yam and Ted Hui by Hong Kong authorities, who are currently living in Australia.