In a notable proclamation, Hong Kong police have issued bounties amounting to HK$1 million for information that could lead to the arrest of six pro-democracy activists currently residing in the UK and Canada. These individuals, among them Tony Chung, a former leader of a pro-independence group, are accused of violating the 2020 National Security Law. Official accounts name accusations ranging from incitement to secession, subversion, and collusion with foreign forces as the basis for the bounties.
Chung, who fled to the UK last year, is joined on the list by former district councillor Carmen Lau, activist Chloe Cheung, political commentator Chung Kim-wah, former actor Joseph Tay, and YouTuber Victor Ho. The charges against these individuals are articulated in terms of subversion activities or calls for foreign interference.
The Hong Kong Police explain that the individuals on the wanted list have contravened national security protocols, thus mandating global law enforcement to assist in their capture. The authorities cite Article 33 of the National Security Law which allows for potential mitigation of sentences should any offender voluntarily discontinue illegal actions or assist in uncovering further offences.
Particular attention is drawn to Chloe Cheung’s case, who has been named as a “core member” of the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation, an organization advocating for Hong Kong independence. Cheung, who has continued to advocate for sanctions against China and Hong Kong, voiced her commitment to her cause despite the penalties. She stated that such actions will not diminish her resolve but rather reinforce her fight for Hong Kong’s autonomy.
Internationally, the actions of Hong Kong have been met with criticism. US Consul General in Macau and Hong Kong, Gregory May, and UK Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, have both expressed concerns that these measures seek to silence dissent and intimidate critics of the Hong Kong regime abroad.
This bounty initiative is the third of its nature since the Beijing-imposed National Security Law was enacted. While Beijing upholds the law as a stabilizing measure, critics argue that it represses autonomy and curtails freedoms. Recently, China also sanctioned 20 Canadians, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding its international human rights record and particularly affecting communities like Tibetans and Uyghurs, a move that further escalates global diplomatic strains.
More details can be found in the original report.