The Hong Kong government escalates its crackdown on pro-democracy figures by revoking passports and imposing severe penalties.
The Hong Kong government has revoked the passports of six overseas activists, citing their alleged activities that undermine national security. Among those affected are Nathan Law, a former pro-democracy lawmaker, unionist Mung Siu-tat, and activists Simon Cheng, Finn Lau, Johnny Fok, and Tony Choi, who have all fled to the U.K. The authorities accuse these individuals of continuing to jeopardize national security from abroad.
This action is part of a broader effort by Hong Kong’s government, following the implementation of the controversial national security law, which has been used to target pro-democracy figures and activists. The government stated that the six individuals have “absconded” to the U.K., where they have been involved in actions deemed to threaten Hong Kong’s stability.
In addition to canceling their passports, the government has imposed severe penalties on anyone who provides financial support or resources to the activists, including leasing properties to them or engaging in joint ventures. Violating these restrictions could result in up to seven years in prison.
The move follows a series of rewards offered by Hong Kong police last year, offering 1 million Hong Kong dollars (approximately $128,000) for information leading to the activists’ arrests, and has prompted strong criticism from Western governments, which see it as an escalation of Beijing’s efforts to silence dissent.
