An Australian citizen, Feng Chongyi, has recently discovered that he is wanted by Hong Kong authorities, as they have imposed bounties on him and 18 other foreign nationals. This development marks a significant escalation in tensions between Hong Kong and various international actors, particularly amid ongoing concerns about the suppression of pro-democracy movements in the region.
Bounties and Allegations Against Activists
The Hong Kong Police Force announced that they are offering a reward of $HK200,000 (approximately $38,000) for each of the 15 activists, while the remaining four individuals face bounties of $HK1 million (around $194,038). The police have accused these individuals, including citizens from the UK and Australia, of being involved with a “subversive organisation” known as the Hong Kong Parliament, a pro-democracy group.
The arrest warrants come in the wake of political unrest and protests that have characterised Hong Kong since the introduction of sweeping national security laws by Beijing in 2020. These laws have been met with widespread criticism for infringing on civil liberties and stifling dissent.
Reactions from Feng Chongyi and Australian Officials
Dr. Feng, who had previously faced detention in China for a week in 2017, described the arrest warrant as “ridiculous.” He expressed that he does not consider it a major concern, as he has no intention of returning to either mainland China or Hong Kong.
“This action shows the world the brutality of the Chinese communist regime,” Dr. Feng stated. “It also reminds the world that Hong Kong has been completely controlled by China.”
Dr. Feng’s involvement in pro-democracy initiatives includes participation in an electoral organising committee in Hong Kong, which authorities cited as part of their justification for the warrant. He noted that he joined the committee to support friends in Hong Kong who aspire for democratic reform. Fortunately for him, the current suspension of Australia’s extradition treaty with Hong Kong provides some relief.
Condemnation of the arrest warrants has come swiftly from Australian politicians. Penny Wong, the Australian Foreign Affairs Minister, took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to voice her objections, stating, “Freedom of expression and assembly are essential to our democracy.”
Opposition foreign affairs spokesperson Michaelia Cash also expressed serious concerns regarding the warrants, emphasising the importance of free speech as a fundamental element of democracy.
On a diplomatic front, UK Secretary of State David Lammy, who was in Australia during the announcement, described the interference in UK affairs as “totally, totally unacceptable,” pledging to confront such actions.
International Implications and Symbolic Nature of Bounties
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, reports suggest that the bounties are largely symbolic, as the individuals targeted reside in countries unlikely to extradite political activists back to Hong Kong or China. According to the Hong Kong Police Force, as of last week, there are a total of 34 individuals wanted for national security offences, including charges of secession, subversion, and foreign collusion.
This latest move by Hong Kong authorities further highlights the ongoing struggle for democracy and human rights in the region, as activists and international observers express concerns about the erosion of freedoms once enjoyed by Hong Kong citizens.
