Hong Kong offers bounties for six more democrats in security squeeze

24/12/2024 14:13

Hong Kong on Tuesday imposed bounties of HK$1 million ($128,728) on six more pro-democracy campaigners deemed to have violated national security laws, as well as revoking the passports of seven others, in a continuing security squeeze in the financial hub.



Hong Kong's Secretary for Security Chris Tang said the six -- all based overseas in countries including Britain and the United States -- had engaged in the alleged crimes of incitement to secession and subversion.



The six included UK-based commentator Chung Kim-wah, former head of a pro-independence group Tony Chung, and Carmen Lau, a member of the Hong Kong Democracy Council.



"As a staunch advocate of Hong Kong nationalism, today's bounty arrest warrants serve as a recognition of my cause," wrote Chung on Instagram.



The move to add more names to Hong Kong's wanted list comes as the city strives to revive its economic growth and international reputation after a years-long crackdown on dissent that has drawn global criticism.



China and Hong Kong authorities have defended the clampdown under sweeping national security laws, saying stability has been restored after mass pro-democracy protests in 2019.