Society's Child
Hong Kong Police tweeted that the man was arrested for holding the independence flag in Causeway Bay, "violating #NationalSecurityLaw," and added that it was the first arrest made since the law has come into force.
The national security law came into effect last night, after it was introduced by China's government in late May. It has been endorsed by Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam, who said it is "necessary and timely" to maintain stability in the semi-autonomous territory, which has seen regular protests since March 2019, following the introduction of an extradition bill, and has since evolved into anti-government demonstrations.
Under the new rules, those found guilty of crimes of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces may face life in prison. Protesters and several countries have opposed the bill, saying it threatens Hong Kong's status under the 'one country, two systems' arrangement with China that has been in place since 1997, when Britain handed over administration to Beijing.
The protests are heavily backed by the West and, following criticism of the new law by the US, UK, and others, China has urged other countries to stay out of its affairs. Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said on Wednesday that Beijing will not allow foreign interference in its domestic affairs.
Reader Comments
The new law is widely supported. We have had enough of paid rioters trashing our City and running off to Taiwan before they are caught. Cheung Yiu Ming of the HK Macau Affairs office asked the FCO "What has it got to do with you?" Too right. It made us all laugh.
Now lets see the 3,000,000 applications for BNO passports. It was repudiated after the handover as the visa access to neighbouring countries is poor and many BNO holders allowed their passports to expire, preferring the Hong Kong passport. That hasn't changed. Where are these three million dissatisfied residents to be found - only in the FCO files it seems.
Now hopefully soon the majority of usa folk wake up to their delima ie paid rioters blm and others. I guess trump didn't declare blm terrorists because no doubt seen as wacist.
Our better halves.....at times.
Comment: The new national security law handed down from Beijing to restore order was neither welcomed, nor embraced by Hong Kong. Tensions escalated as the crowds and police clashed: See also: China passes Hong Kong security law, will go into force July 1