*As tensions escalate between Hong Kong's government and pro-democracy advocates, police are incentivizing informants to assist in the arrests of those living in exile.*
**Hong Kong Police Offer Rewards for Pro-Democracy Activists Abroad**
**Hong Kong Police Offer Rewards for Pro-Democracy Activists Abroad**
*Authorities seek HK$1m bounty to target six activists promoting democracy in the UK and Canada.*
Hong Kong police have announced a significant reward of HK$1 million (about £103,000; $129,000) for information that could lead to the capture of six pro-democracy activists currently residing in the UK and Canada. Among the targeted individuals is Tony Chung, a former leader of a pro-independence group who fled to the UK last year. Included on the list are other prominent figures such as former district councillors and activists voicing criticism against the Hong Kong government's adherence to national security laws.
All six activists are charged with various violations under Hong Kong's controversial national security law, which critics argue is designed to suppress dissent. Human Rights Watch has condemned the warrants as an act of intimidation, urging the UK and Canadian governments to take a stand against what they describe as coercive measures against Hong Kong residents abroad.
The wanted individuals include Carmen Lau and Chloe Cheung, both now in the UK, who are active in advocating for increased democracy in Hong Kong. Additionally, political commentator Chung Kim-wah, who left for the UK in 2022, is also facing legal trouble due to his vocal opposition to the government's policies.
Arrest warrants have also been issued for two activists in Canada: former actor Joseph Tay, a co-founder of HongKonger Station, and YouTuber Victor Ho, the latter of whom has been charged with subversion. Chung, who has previously been jailed for advocating Hong Kong's independence, confirmed that he anticipated such actions following his decision to leave the city.
In reaction to the warrant, Lau expressed her commitment to continue her advocacy and called on Western governments to impose sanctions against those perpetuating human rights violations in Hong Kong. She emphasized the need for a serious reassessment of strategies to combat transnational repression targeting Hong Kong residents.
This recent round of bounties follows previous warrants issued last year, aimed at activists who now live in the UK following their escape from Hong Kong. During a period of escalating tensions and widespread protests in 2019, the enforcement of the national security law was seen by many as a means to curb civil liberties in the region. Authorities argue the legislation is essential for maintaining social stability, while dissenters maintain it undermines Hong Kong’s autonomy.
All six activists are charged with various violations under Hong Kong's controversial national security law, which critics argue is designed to suppress dissent. Human Rights Watch has condemned the warrants as an act of intimidation, urging the UK and Canadian governments to take a stand against what they describe as coercive measures against Hong Kong residents abroad.
The wanted individuals include Carmen Lau and Chloe Cheung, both now in the UK, who are active in advocating for increased democracy in Hong Kong. Additionally, political commentator Chung Kim-wah, who left for the UK in 2022, is also facing legal trouble due to his vocal opposition to the government's policies.
Arrest warrants have also been issued for two activists in Canada: former actor Joseph Tay, a co-founder of HongKonger Station, and YouTuber Victor Ho, the latter of whom has been charged with subversion. Chung, who has previously been jailed for advocating Hong Kong's independence, confirmed that he anticipated such actions following his decision to leave the city.
In reaction to the warrant, Lau expressed her commitment to continue her advocacy and called on Western governments to impose sanctions against those perpetuating human rights violations in Hong Kong. She emphasized the need for a serious reassessment of strategies to combat transnational repression targeting Hong Kong residents.
This recent round of bounties follows previous warrants issued last year, aimed at activists who now live in the UK following their escape from Hong Kong. During a period of escalating tensions and widespread protests in 2019, the enforcement of the national security law was seen by many as a means to curb civil liberties in the region. Authorities argue the legislation is essential for maintaining social stability, while dissenters maintain it undermines Hong Kong’s autonomy.
