Hong Kong’s national security police have issued arrest warrants for 19 activists residing overseas, accusing them of subversion under a stringent national security law. This development marks the largest number of warrants issued to date and highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the city’s political landscape.
The activists are alleged to have organized or participated in the unofficial “Hong Kong Parliament,” a group that authorities claim aims to undermine state power. This group reportedly sought to achieve self-determination and draft a “Hong Kong constitution.” The national security law, imposed by Beijing in July 2020, was enacted after significant pro-democracy protests in 2019 shook the Asian financial hub.
Among those named in the warrants are businessman Elmer Yuen, commentator Victor Ho, and activists Johnny Fok and Tony Choi. Police stated that the organization sought to overthrow the governments of China and Hong Kong through unlawful means. They indicated that the investigation is ongoing, with the potential for further arrests.
The four individuals mentioned earlier are also subject to existing arrest warrants, each carrying a bounty of $HK1 million (approximately $A192,738). For the remaining 15 activists, police have announced a reward of $HK200,000 for information leading to their capture. These individuals are believed to have either organized or participated in the election process for the “Hong Kong Parliament” and have been sworn in as its councillors.
None of those accused could be reached for comment regarding the charges. The former British colony, which returned to Chinese sovereignty in 1997, was promised a high degree of autonomy, including freedom of speech, under the “one country, two systems” framework. Critics argue that the national security law is being used to suppress dissent in the city.
Chinese and Hong Kong officials have consistently defended the law, asserting that it is essential for restoring stability following the violent anti-government and anti-China protests that occurred in 2019. As the political climate continues to evolve, the implications of these arrest warrants signal a further tightening of control over dissenting voices in Hong Kong.
