The UK government has expressed strong disapproval of the recent cash incentives offered by Hong Kong authorities aimed at apprehending pro-democracy activists residing in Britain. Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper jointly denounced the move, labeling it "another example of transnational repression." The Hong Kong government is offering rewards ranging from $25,000 (HK$200,000) to $125,000 for information resulting in the arrests of 19 identified activists, all accused under a stringent national security law enacted by Beijing in 2020 following extensive anti-government protests.
Notable figures targeted in this latest bounty include Nathan Law, a former lawmaker, and activist Yuan Gong-Yi, both of whom now live abroad. The rewards system follows previous offerings that have spurred apprehension among activists, with Law stating that the bounty has escalated threats against him since it was first publicized. The Hong Kong authorities had previously issued similar cash rewards in July and December 2023, also focusing on high-profile activists.
The Home Office revealed that around 150,000 Hong Kong residents have relocated to the UK under a special visa scheme initiated in 2021. This migration has heightened concerns over the safety and rights of these individuals as Hong Kong continues to suppress dissent with stringent legal measures.
In their official response, Cooper and Lammy reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to standing by Hong Kong residents, stating their government prioritizes the rights, freedoms, and security of individuals in the UK. They also emphasized the steps taken to sever the extradition agreement between the UK and Hong Kong, outlining the UK's dedication to upholding human rights and the rule of law. As international tensions continue to escalate, the call for protecting democracy advocates becomes increasingly urgent amid ongoing repression in Hong Kong.
Notable figures targeted in this latest bounty include Nathan Law, a former lawmaker, and activist Yuan Gong-Yi, both of whom now live abroad. The rewards system follows previous offerings that have spurred apprehension among activists, with Law stating that the bounty has escalated threats against him since it was first publicized. The Hong Kong authorities had previously issued similar cash rewards in July and December 2023, also focusing on high-profile activists.
The Home Office revealed that around 150,000 Hong Kong residents have relocated to the UK under a special visa scheme initiated in 2021. This migration has heightened concerns over the safety and rights of these individuals as Hong Kong continues to suppress dissent with stringent legal measures.
In their official response, Cooper and Lammy reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to standing by Hong Kong residents, stating their government prioritizes the rights, freedoms, and security of individuals in the UK. They also emphasized the steps taken to sever the extradition agreement between the UK and Hong Kong, outlining the UK's dedication to upholding human rights and the rule of law. As international tensions continue to escalate, the call for protecting democracy advocates becomes increasingly urgent amid ongoing repression in Hong Kong.
