The US government on Friday issued a business advisory on Hong Kong warning companies of "growing risks" that "could adversely affect businesses and individuals operating in Hong Kong."&nbsp;

The Biden administration also imposed sanctions against seven Chinese officials over China's crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong.

However, China's foreign ministry lashed out against the US government asserting that it was "purely China's internal affairs".

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-business-watch-chinas-economic-growth-more-than-halves-in-second-quarter-398154/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The United States should abide by international law and basic norms of international relations, stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs in any way," China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said.

"China will respond firmly and forcefully to the measures taken by the United States," it added.

The US advisory mentioned risks involved with data privacy and the lack of access to information while mentioning Apple Daily newspaper which was shut by authorities.

US President Joe Biden had said earlier that the situation in Hong Kong has been "deteriorating"&nbsp;while adding that the Chinese government has not been keeping its commitment on&nbsp;Hong Kong.

State Department spokesman Ned Price had said earlier that national security law continues to undermine healthy business in Hong Kong.

The latest US move comes as US Senate passed legislation to ban the import of products from China's Xinjiang region.

The bill known as Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act was passed unanimously and will now be tabled in the House of Representatives.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

The US government on Friday issued a business advisory on Hong Kong warning companies of "growing risks" that "could adversely affect businesses and individuals operating in Hong Kong.

The US government on Friday issued a business advisory on Hong Kong warning companies of "growing risks" that "could adversely affect businesses and individuals operating in Hong Kong." The Biden administration also imposed sanctions against seven Chinese officials over China's crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong. However, China's foreign ministry lashed out against the US government asserting that it was "purely China's internal affairs". Watch: "The United States should abide by international law and basic norms of international relations, stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs in any way," China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said. "China will respond firmly and forcefully to the measures taken by the United States," it added. The US advisory mentioned risks involved with data privacy and the lack of access to information while mentioning Apple Daily newspaper which was shut by authorities. US President Joe Biden had said earlier that the situation in Hong Kong has been "deteriorating" while adding that the Chinese government has not been keeping its commitment on Hong Kong. State Department spokesman Ned Price had said earlier that national security law continues to undermine healthy business in Hong Kong. The latest US move comes as US Senate passed legislation to ban the import of products from China's Xinjiang region. The bill known as Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act was passed unanimously and will now be tabled in the House of Representatives. (With inputs from Agencies)

US sanctions Chinese officials, issues business advisory on Hong Kong

One of Hong Kong's most established pro-democracy civic organizations says it's letting go its paid staff and halving the size of its steering committee. Watch this report to know more.

HK pro-democracy group downsizes amid crackdown

Invisible to those below, sprawling gardens of rhubarb, carrots and radishes have been flourishing on top of Hong Kong skyscrapers.&nbsp;

Since 2015, around 60 such farms have sprouted up in the space-starved city of Hong Kong. Located on abandoned helipads, mall rooftops and public terraces, these are a part of an initiative&nbsp;by a local social enterprise called 'Rooftop Republic'.

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In a city that practices what he calls the "instant-noodle city lifestyle", Cofounder Andrew Tsui sees these farms as a way to familiarising people with methods of producing sustainable food.

Tsui believes that the industrialisation of the food industry has damaged Hong Kongers' relationship with food. The organisation thus aims to enlighten people about food through the use of underused spaces in the city.

Pile after pile of food waste

Government statistics indicate Hong Kong discards around 3,500 tonnes of food waste daily, roughly the weight of 250 double-decker buses, the majority of which is not even recycled.

90 per cent of the food consumed by the city's 7.5 million residents is imported, mainly from mainland China. However, despite Hong Kong's high population density, there is still considerable room for growing food locally.

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The amount of farmable land is only about seven million square meters, according to Tsui. Nonetheless, there is over six million square metres of untapped space on the city's rooftops, which holds the potential to double the supply of fertile land.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He adds that the challenge is to incorporate urban farming into daily life and make it a lifestyle, and for that to happen, accessibility is the first step."

Rooftop Republic works closely with architects, developers, and property managers to integrate urban farms into office building blueprints.

Some major companies have signed up for the initiative. Among the biggest names are the Bank of America and Singaporean banking giant DBS, which have partnered with Rooftop Republic to run a series of workshops for professionals and beginners.&nbsp;

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According to the group's senior director of property management, Eric Lau, while Hong Kong mostly focuses on commercial property values, their organisation aims to promote the concept of sustainability.&nbsp;

Currently, Tsui observes that there is little interest among young Hong Kongers but there is a great opportunity to generate enthusiasm when it comes to the environment and climate change.&nbsp;

The ability to grow your own food is a necessary new skill that we all must learn to ensure a regenerative and green environment, he said.

(With inputs from agencies)tre

Invisible to those below, sprawling gardens of rhubarb, carrots and radishes have been flourishing on top of Hong Kong skyscrapers. Since 2015, around 60 such farms have sprouted up in the space-starved city of Hong Kong.

Invisible to those below, sprawling gardens of rhubarb, carrots and radishes have been flourishing on top of Hong Kong skyscrapers. Since 2015, around 60 such farms have sprouted up in the space-starved city of Hong Kong. Located on abandoned helipads, mall rooftops and public terraces, these are a part of an initiative by a local social enterprise called 'Rooftop Republic'. Also read | 'Champagne is French': Ministers denounce Russia 'sparkling wine' law In a city that practices what he calls the "instant-noodle city lifestyle", Cofounder Andrew Tsui sees these farms as a way to familiarising people with methods of producing sustainable food. Tsui believes that the industrialisation of the food industry has damaged Hong Kongers' relationship with food. The organisation thus aims to enlighten people about food through the use of underused spaces in the city. Pile after pile of food waste Government statistics indicate Hong Kong discards around 3,500 tonnes of food waste daily, roughly the weight of 250 double-decker buses, the majority of which is not even recycled. 90 per cent of the food consumed by the city's 7.5 million residents is imported, mainly from mainland China. However, despite Hong Kong's high population density, there is still considerable room for growing food locally. Also read | Scientists resolve mystery of why otters stay warm in cold surroundings The amount of farmable land is only about seven million square meters, according to Tsui. Nonetheless, there is over six million square metres of untapped space on the city's rooftops, which holds the potential to double the supply of fertile land. He adds that the challenge is to incorporate urban farming into daily life and make it a lifestyle, and for that to happen, accessibility is the first step." Rooftop Republic works closely with architects, developers, and property managers to integrate urban farms into office building blueprints. Some major companies have signed up for the initiative. Among the biggest names are the Bank of America and Singaporean banking giant DBS, which have partnered with Rooftop Republic to run a series of workshops for professionals and beginners. Also read | Winchcombe meteorite gets official classification, here is all you need to know According to the group's senior director of property management, Eric Lau, while Hong Kong mostly focuses on commercial property values, their organisation aims to promote the concept of sustainability. Currently, Tsui observes that there is little interest among young Hong Kongers but there is a great opportunity to generate enthusiasm when it comes to the environment and climate change. The ability to grow your own food is a necessary new skill that we all must learn to ensure a regenerative and green environment, he said. (With inputs from agencies)tre

Short on space, Hong Kong sprouts sky gardens

Six secondary school children were among nine Hong Kongers arrested on terror charges for allegedly trying to manufacture a powerful explosive, police announced Tuesday.

Five males and four females aged between 15 and 39 were arrested Monday on suspicion of "conspiracy to use explosives for terrorist activities", police said.

"The operation we conducted yesterday was against gangsters (who) tried to manufacture TATP explosive inside a home-made laboratory inside a hostel," senior superintendent Steve Li, from the city's new national security unit, told reporters. TATP is a high-powered explosive.

Police said the nine people belonged to a pro-independence group that called itself "Returning Valiant". 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-security-law-is-a-human-rights-emergency-amnesty-394852">Also read | Hong Kong security law is 'a human rights emergency': Amnesty</a>

Those arrested included six teenage students and three adults who worked at a local university, a secondary school, and as a driver.

Li said they were planning to attack public facilities including a cross-harbour tunnel, the railway network, and courtrooms to "maximise damage to society".

Anti-government sentiment exploded in 2019 during massive and often violent pro-democracy protests that were stamped out with arrests and a new national security law. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-citizens-snap-up-final-edition-of-apple-daily-taiwan-edition-to-continue-operations-393571">Also read | Hong Kong citizens snap up final edition of Apple Daily, Taiwan edition to continue operations</a>

While stability has been widely enforced, Hong Kong remains a deeply polarised city where many residents still seethe under Beijing's rule.

News of Tuesday's arrests came just days after a 50-year-old man took his own life after stabbing a police officer in what authorities said was a "lone wolf" attack.

Police said Tuesday they seized various items from the group, including a small amount of explosives, raw materials to produce TATP, air guns, mobile phones, SIM cards, an operating manual on how to plant bombs, and plans to leave the city.

They also found some HK$90,000 ($11,585) in cash and froze around HK$600,000 in related bank accounts.

Police have made multiple arrests in the last two years for alleged bomb plots although no major attack has been carried out successfully. 
 
In April, a 29-year-old man was jailed for 12-years for manufacturing a kilogramme of TATP.

Six secondary school children were among nine Hong Kongers arrested on terror charges for allegedly trying to manufacture a powerful explosive, police announced Tuesday.

Six secondary school children were among nine Hong Kongers arrested on terror charges for allegedly trying to manufacture a powerful explosive, police announced Tuesday. Five males and four females aged between 15 and 39 were arrested Monday on suspicion of "conspiracy to use explosives for terrorist activities", police said. "The operation we conducted yesterday was against gangsters (who) tried to manufacture TATP explosive inside a home-made laboratory inside a hostel," senior superintendent Steve Li, from the city's new national security unit, told reporters. TATP is a high-powered explosive. Police said the nine people belonged to a pro-independence group that called itself "Returning Valiant". Also read | Hong Kong security law is 'a human rights emergency': Amnesty Those arrested included six teenage students and three adults who worked at a local university, a secondary school, and as a driver. Li said they were planning to attack public facilities including a cross-harbour tunnel, the railway network, and courtrooms to "maximise damage to society". Anti-government sentiment exploded in 2019 during massive and often violent pro-democracy protests that were stamped out with arrests and a new national security law. Also read | Hong Kong citizens snap up final edition of Apple Daily, Taiwan edition to continue operations While stability has been widely enforced, Hong Kong remains a deeply polarised city where many residents still seethe under Beijing's rule. News of Tuesday's arrests came just days after a 50-year-old man took his own life after stabbing a police officer in what authorities said was a "lone wolf" attack. Police said Tuesday they seized various items from the group, including a small amount of explosives, raw materials to produce TATP, air guns, mobile phones, SIM cards, an operating manual on how to plant bombs, and plans to leave the city. They also found some HK$90,000 ($11,585) in cash and froze around HK$600,000 in related bank accounts. Police have made multiple arrests in the last two years for alleged bomb plots although no major attack has been carried out successfully. In April, a 29-year-old man was jailed for 12-years for manufacturing a kilogramme of TATP.

Six school kids among nine Hong Kongers arrested for ‘bomb plot’

Chinese President Xi Jinping&nbsp;on Thursday hailed an "irreversible" course from colonial humiliation to great-power status at the centenary celebrations for the Chinese Communist Party.

In a televised address from Tiananmen Square in the centre of Beijing, Xi&nbsp;said&nbsp;China had achieved its centenary goal of building a "moderately prosperous society", and emphasised its sense of nationalism.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/beijing-celebrates-100th-founding-anniversary-of-chinese-communist-party-395047/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The Chinese people will never allow any foreign forces to bully, oppress, or enslave us. Anyone who dares try to do that will have their heads bashed bloodied against the Great Wall of Steel forged by over 1.4 billion Chinese people," Xi told thousands of attendees who responded with claps and loud cheers.

Drawing a line from the subjugation of the Opium Wars to the struggle to establish a socialist revolution in China, Xi said the party had brought about "national rejuvenation" lifting tens of millions from poverty and "altered the landscape of world development".

Xi, wearing a Mao-style jacket, added the "great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation has entered an irreversible historical course" and vowed to continue to build a "world-class" military to defend national interests.

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Jinping and the party are riding high as China recovers briskly from the COVID-19 outbreak and takes a more assertive stand on the global stage, although Beijing also faces criticism over its actions in Hong Kong and Xinjiang, and contends with a worsening demographic outlook that imperils long-term economic growth.

In the summer of 1921 Mao and a clutch of Marxist-Leninist thinkers in Shanghai founded the party which has since morphed into one of the world's most powerful political organisations.

It now counts around 95 million members, garnered over a century of war, famine and turmoil, and more recently a surge to superpower status butting up against Western rivals, led by the US.

In a ceremony of pomp and patriotism, thousands of singers, backed by a marching band, belted out stirring choruses including "We Are the Heirs of Communism" and "Without the Communist Party there would be no New China" as maskless invitees cheered and waved flags&nbsp;in a packed Tiananmen Square.

A fly-by of helicopters in formation spelling '100'&nbsp;a giant hammer and sickle flag trailing and a 100-gun salute followed while young communists in unison pledged allegiance to the party.

Xi, whose speech braided the economic miracle of China with the longevity of the party, has cemented his eight-year rule through a personality cult, ending presidential term limits and declining to anoint a successor.

He has purged rivals and crushed dissent, from Uyghur Muslims and online critics to pro-democracy protests on Hong Kong's streets.

The party has pivoted to new challenges; using tech to renew its appeal to younger generations, 12.55 million members are now aged 30 or younger,&nbsp;while giving a communist finish to a consumer economy decorated by billionaire entrepreneurs.

While the president did not mention himself in the speech, "it is quite clear that much of the credit for China's success belongs to Xi," said Willie Lam, China analyst at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Xi has presented a defiant face to overseas rivals, revving up nationalist sentiment. He has batted back criticism of his government's actions in Hong Kong, attitude towards Taiwan and treatment of the Uyghurs.

In its 100th year, the party has delivered a selective version of history through films, 'red tourism' campaigns and books, which dance over the mass violence of the Cultural Revolution, famines and the Tiananmen Square crackdown.

Instead, it has drawn attention to China's rebound from COVID-19, which first emerged in the central city of Wuhan but has been virtually extinguished inside the country.

But reminders linger of the risks to stability.

Thursday also marks the 24th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to Chinese rule, a date once met with mass demonstrations against Beijing inside the former British colony.

One year ago, China imposed a draconian national security law on the city in response to huge, often violent, pro-democracy protests.

The measure has seen activists charged, anti-China slogans criminalised and even the closure of a critical newspaper as the law sinks the once freewheeling city into what Amnesty International calls a "human rights emergency".

Four activists marched with a banner near the official anniversary reception on Thursday,&nbsp;tailed by 200 police officers, a fraction of the thousands deployed across the city to deter pro-democracy groups from mobilising.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday hailed an "irreversible" course from colonial humiliation to great-power status at the centenary celebrations for the Chinese Communist Party.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday hailed an "irreversible" course from colonial humiliation to great-power status at the centenary celebrations for the Chinese Communist Party. In a televised address from Tiananmen Square in the centre of Beijing, Xi said China had achieved its centenary goal of building a "moderately prosperous society", and emphasised its sense of nationalism. "The Chinese people will never allow any foreign forces to bully, oppress, or enslave us. Anyone who dares try to do that will have their heads bashed bloodied against the Great Wall of Steel forged by over 1.4 billion Chinese people," Xi told thousands of attendees who responded with claps and loud cheers. Drawing a line from the subjugation of the Opium Wars to the struggle to establish a socialist revolution in China, Xi said the party had brought about "national rejuvenation" lifting tens of millions from poverty and "altered the landscape of world development". Xi, wearing a Mao-style jacket, added the "great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation has entered an irreversible historical course" and vowed to continue to build a "world-class" military to defend national interests. Also see| Secret society: What Chinese Communist Party doesn't want you to know Jinping and the party are riding high as China recovers briskly from the COVID-19 outbreak and takes a more assertive stand on the global stage, although Beijing also faces criticism over its actions in Hong Kong and Xinjiang, and contends with a worsening demographic outlook that imperils long-term economic growth. In the summer of 1921 Mao and a clutch of Marxist-Leninist thinkers in Shanghai founded the party which has since morphed into one of the world's most powerful political organisations. It now counts around 95 million members, garnered over a century of war, famine and turmoil, and more recently a surge to superpower status butting up against Western rivals, led by the US. In a ceremony of pomp and patriotism, thousands of singers, backed by a marching band, belted out stirring choruses including "We Are the Heirs of Communism" and "Without the Communist Party there would be no New China" as maskless invitees cheered and waved flags in a packed Tiananmen Square. A fly-by of helicopters in formation spelling '100' a giant hammer and sickle flag trailing and a 100-gun salute followed while young communists in unison pledged allegiance to the party. Xi, whose speech braided the economic miracle of China with the longevity of the party, has cemented his eight-year rule through a personality cult, ending presidential term limits and declining to anoint a successor. He has purged rivals and crushed dissent, from Uyghur Muslims and online critics to pro-democracy protests on Hong Kong's streets. The party has pivoted to new challenges; using tech to renew its appeal to younger generations, 12.55 million members are now aged 30 or younger, while giving a communist finish to a consumer economy decorated by billionaire entrepreneurs. While the president did not mention himself in the speech, "it is quite clear that much of the credit for China's success belongs to Xi," said Willie Lam, China analyst at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Xi has presented a defiant face to overseas rivals, revving up nationalist sentiment. He has batted back criticism of his government's actions in Hong Kong, attitude towards Taiwan and treatment of the Uyghurs. In its 100th year, the party has delivered a selective version of history through films, 'red tourism' campaigns and books, which dance over the mass violence of the Cultural Revolution, famines and the Tiananmen Square crackdown. Instead, it has drawn attention to China's rebound from COVID-19, which first emerged in the central city of Wuhan but has been virtually extinguished inside the country. But reminders linger of the risks to stability. Thursday also marks the 24th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to Chinese rule, a date once met with mass demonstrations against Beijing inside the former British colony. One year ago, China imposed a draconian national security law on the city in response to huge, often violent, pro-democracy protests. The measure has seen activists charged, anti-China slogans criminalised and even the closure of a critical newspaper as the law sinks the once freewheeling city into what Amnesty International calls a "human rights emergency". Four activists marched with a banner near the official anniversary reception on Thursday, tailed by 200 police officers, a fraction of the thousands deployed across the city to deter pro-democracy groups from mobilising. (With inputs from agencies)

President Xi Jinping hails 'irreversible' rise of China on Communist Party centenary

Hong Kong's acting chief executive John Lee said on Thursday that the city is returning&nbsp;to order from chaos since China imposed a sweeping national security law on the global financial hub last year.

Beijing imposed the security law just before midnight on June 30 last year to punish anything China deems as subversion, secession, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-ways-hong-kong-has-changed-under-chinas-security-law-310644">Five ways Hong Kong has changed under China's security law</a>

The security law was Beijing's first major step to put the global financial hub onto an authoritarian path, kick-starting a campaign dubbed "patriots rule Hong Kong," which included moves to reduce democratic representation in the city's legislature and various screening mechanisms for politicians.

Lee was speaking for the first time as acting city leader at a flag-raising ceremony marking the 24th anniversary of the former British colony's return to Chinese rule in 1997, which coincides with the centenary of the Chinese Communist Party.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/one-year-of-hong-kongs-security-law-395013/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Chief Executive Carrie Lam and other senior officials were invited to Beijing for the party celebrations. Lee was appointed as her number two&nbsp;last week after playing a key role in the city's crackdown over the past year as security secretary.

"In the coming year, we will continue to take a steady stance to protect national security," Lee said. "Hong Kong absolutely has the conditions to rebound from a trough."

Lee said the security legislation and electoral reforms had made "Hong Kong society change from chaos to order."

Critics of the government say it has used the security law to crush dissent in the former British colony, an assertion officials in Beijing and Hong Kong reject.

Supporters of the legislation say it has restored order and plugged national security "loopholes" exposed by anti-government demonstrations in 2019.

So far under the new law, described as a "birthday gift" by senior Chinese official Zhang Xiaoming when it was introduced last year, authorities have arrested 117 people, mostly democratic politicians, activists, journalists and students.

Beijing said it was necessary after mass pro-democracy and anti-China protests in 2019 that have been described as acts endangering national security. Many protesters, however, say they were demanding Beijing respect constitutionally guaranteed rights and freedoms.

Usually on July 1, tens of thousands of people take to the streets in Hong Kong to protest against anything from Beijing's manoeuvres in the city to unaffordable housing.

That tradition, which set the semi-autonomous city apart from tightly controlled mainland China, is unlikely to be followed by many people this year after police denied permission for a rally, citing coronavirus restrictions.

"It is crystal clear that under the NSL (national security law), over a year, it does have a chilling effect on Hong Kong people ... less people would have the confidence to go on the street to speak out," said Raphael Wong, an activist with the League of Social Democrats who held a protest with three others that was hemmed in by dozens of police officers.

In many other areas, there was a palpable security presence, with police vans, water cannon trucks, armoured vehicles and units of police officers patrolling many areas.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong's acting chief executive John Lee said on Thursday that the city is returning to order from chaos since China imposed a sweeping national security law on the global financial hub last year.

Hong Kong's acting chief executive John Lee said on Thursday that the city is returning to order from chaos since China imposed a sweeping national security law on the global financial hub last year. Beijing imposed the security law just before midnight on June 30 last year to punish anything China deems as subversion, secession, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. Also see | Five ways Hong Kong has changed under China's security law The security law was Beijing's first major step to put the global financial hub onto an authoritarian path, kick-starting a campaign dubbed "patriots rule Hong Kong," which included moves to reduce democratic representation in the city's legislature and various screening mechanisms for politicians. Lee was speaking for the first time as acting city leader at a flag-raising ceremony marking the 24th anniversary of the former British colony's return to Chinese rule in 1997, which coincides with the centenary of the Chinese Communist Party. Chief Executive Carrie Lam and other senior officials were invited to Beijing for the party celebrations. Lee was appointed as her number two last week after playing a key role in the city's crackdown over the past year as security secretary. "In the coming year, we will continue to take a steady stance to protect national security," Lee said. "Hong Kong absolutely has the conditions to rebound from a trough." Lee said the security legislation and electoral reforms had made "Hong Kong society change from chaos to order." Critics of the government say it has used the security law to crush dissent in the former British colony, an assertion officials in Beijing and Hong Kong reject. Supporters of the legislation say it has restored order and plugged national security "loopholes" exposed by anti-government demonstrations in 2019. So far under the new law, described as a "birthday gift" by senior Chinese official Zhang Xiaoming when it was introduced last year, authorities have arrested 117 people, mostly democratic politicians, activists, journalists and students. Beijing said it was necessary after mass pro-democracy and anti-China protests in 2019 that have been described as acts endangering national security. Many protesters, however, say they were demanding Beijing respect constitutionally guaranteed rights and freedoms. Usually on July 1, tens of thousands of people take to the streets in Hong Kong to protest against anything from Beijing's manoeuvres in the city to unaffordable housing. That tradition, which set the semi-autonomous city apart from tightly controlled mainland China, is unlikely to be followed by many people this year after police denied permission for a rally, citing coronavirus restrictions. "It is crystal clear that under the NSL (national security law), over a year, it does have a chilling effect on Hong Kong people ... less people would have the confidence to go on the street to speak out," said Raphael Wong, an activist with the League of Social Democrats who held a protest with three others that was hemmed in by dozens of police officers. In many other areas, there was a palpable security presence, with police vans, water cannon trucks, armoured vehicles and units of police officers patrolling many areas. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong returning to stability after 'chaos', says acting chief executive John Lee

A famous Hong Kong protester&nbsp;nicknamed "Grandma Wong" was arrested again by the police after she waved a Union Jack in Hong Kong on July 1, the 24th anniversary of Hong Kong's handover to China.

Alexandra Wong, nicknamed 'Grandma Wong', was detained in August 19, 2019 and kept in custody for 14 months in China. She became a familiar face during anti-government protests that rocked Hong Kong in 2019.

July 1st not only marked the 24th anniversary of the territory's handover to China, but it also a year since Hong Kong imposed a wide-ranging national security law that has seen Beijing drastically tightening its grip on the once-freewheeling financial hub.

Permission to hold traditional July 1 protests marking the handover were cancelled by police citing coronavirus restrictions.

(With inputs from agencies)

A famous Hong Kong protester nicknamed "Grandma Wong" was arrested again by the police after she waved a Union Jack in Hong Kong on July 1, the 24th anniversary of Hong Kong's handover to China.

A famous Hong Kong protester nicknamed "Grandma Wong" was arrested again by the police after she waved a Union Jack in Hong Kong on July 1, the 24th anniversary of Hong Kong's handover to China. Alexandra Wong, nicknamed 'Grandma Wong', was detained in August 19, 2019 and kept in custody for 14 months in China. She became a familiar face during anti-government protests that rocked Hong Kong in 2019. July 1st not only marked the 24th anniversary of the territory's handover to China, but it also a year since Hong Kong imposed a wide-ranging national security law that has seen Beijing drastically tightening its grip on the once-freewheeling financial hub. Permission to hold traditional July 1 protests marking the handover were cancelled by police citing coronavirus restrictions. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong protester 'Grandma Wong' arrested by police again

President Xi Jinping has called for some comprehensive implementation of China's governance in Hong Kong as the Chinese Communist Party is celebrating its 100th founding anniversary which comes as Hong Kong for its part is marking 24 years since its handover.

Chinese Communist Party celebrates centenary of founding

Hong Kong authorities have used a new national security law to target dissent and justify 'censorship, harassment, arrests and prosecutions that violate human rights', Amnesty International said on Wednesday, a year after the law was implemented. 
 
Beijing imposed a sweeping national security law in June last year that sets out punishment for anything it deems as subversion, secession, colluding with foreign forces and terrorism with up to life in prison, setting the city on a more authoritarian path. 
 
Authorities have said the law would affect an 'extremely small minority' of people and that it had restored stability after months of often-violent protests in 2019. They have said rights and freedoms in the former British colony remain protected but they are not absolute. 
 
Most high-profile democratic politicians and activists have been arrested under the new law or for protest-related charges, or are in self-exile.

"In one year, the National Security Law has put Hong Kong on a rapid path to becoming a police state and created a human rights emergency for the people living there," said Amnesty International's Asia-Pacific Regional Director Yamini Mishra. 
 
"Ultimately, this sweeping and repressive legislation threatens to make the city a human rights wasteland increasingly resembling mainland China." 
 
The Hong Kong government did not immediately respond to requests for comment. 
 
Authorities have said all arrests have been lawful and no one was above the law, regardless of their occupation. 
 
In its 47-page report, the international human rights group cited analysis of court judgements, court hearing notes and interviews with activists, concluding the legislation has been used 'to carry out a wide range of human rights violations'. 
 
Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule in 1997 with the promise of a high degree of autonomy from Beijing and that wide-ranging rights and freedoms would be protected for at least 50 years. 
 
Mishra said the law "has infected every part of Hong Kong society and fomented a climate of fear that forces residents to think twice about what they say, what they tweet and how they live their lives". 
 
More than 100 people were arrested and more than 60 charged in the first year under the security law, according to a tally by Reuters. 
 
"Hong Kong's NSL has been used as a false pretext to curb dissent," the rights group said, referring to the security law. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong authorities have used a new national security law to target dissent and justify 'censorship, harassment, arrests and prosecutions that violate human rights', Amnesty International said on Wednesday, a year after the law was implemented.

Hong Kong authorities have used a new national security law to target dissent and justify 'censorship, harassment, arrests and prosecutions that violate human rights', Amnesty International said on Wednesday, a year after the law was implemented. Beijing imposed a sweeping national security law in June last year that sets out punishment for anything it deems as subversion, secession, colluding with foreign forces and terrorism with up to life in prison, setting the city on a more authoritarian path. Authorities have said the law would affect an 'extremely small minority' of people and that it had restored stability after months of often-violent protests in 2019. They have said rights and freedoms in the former British colony remain protected but they are not absolute. Most high-profile democratic politicians and activists have been arrested under the new law or for protest-related charges, or are in self-exile. "In one year, the National Security Law has put Hong Kong on a rapid path to becoming a police state and created a human rights emergency for the people living there," said Amnesty International's Asia-Pacific Regional Director Yamini Mishra. "Ultimately, this sweeping and repressive legislation threatens to make the city a human rights wasteland increasingly resembling mainland China." The Hong Kong government did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Authorities have said all arrests have been lawful and no one was above the law, regardless of their occupation. In its 47-page report, the international human rights group cited analysis of court judgements, court hearing notes and interviews with activists, concluding the legislation has been used 'to carry out a wide range of human rights violations'. Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule in 1997 with the promise of a high degree of autonomy from Beijing and that wide-ranging rights and freedoms would be protected for at least 50 years. Mishra said the law "has infected every part of Hong Kong society and fomented a climate of fear that forces residents to think twice about what they say, what they tweet and how they live their lives". More than 100 people were arrested and more than 60 charged in the first year under the security law, according to a tally by Reuters. "Hong Kong's NSL has been used as a false pretext to curb dissent," the rights group said, referring to the security law. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong security law is 'a human rights emergency': Amnesty

Under China’s tightened grip, the semi-autonomous city of Hong Kong has arrested at least 117 people for violating the contentious national security law which limits the scope of dissent in the former British territory.

Since the imposition of the security law, many pro-democracy voices have been arrested in Hong Kong including 60 pro-democracy politicians, activists, students, and journalists.

Beijing imposed the security law in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020 after months of protests against the Communist Party rocked the city.&nbsp;

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Essentially, anybody found indulging in whatever China sees as acts of subversion, terrorism, secession and collusion with outside forces could be sentenced to life in prison.

The law was enforced on priority, just a few hours into July 1, the same day Hong Kong was passed on from Britishers to China in 1997.

Activists in the city and critics from outside claim that the law is being used to curtail freedoms and rights in the only territory within China to offer liberties unavailable elsewhere. Supporters of the law believe that it was imperative to fix “loopholes” that were brought to the public fore in the aftermath of 2019 protests.

Hong Kong’s Security Bureau told Reuters that the law has “stopped chaos and restored order”, while referring to the those arrested “a very small number of the population”, standing at “about 0.0016%”.

Even though activists with a certain political leaning have been taken into custody, the Security Bureau claims that arrests had “nothing to do with their political stance, background or profession”.

Hong Kong attacks dissent on multiple fronts

The ages of those arrested vary, with the youngest being a 15-year-old to the oldest being a 79-year-old. Last year on July 1, ten people were arrested the under law who were protesting it. The law’s provisions deny bail and the scope of a jury during trial.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-reshuffles-hong-kong-top-officials-393960" hreflang="en">China reshuffles Hong Kong top officials</a>

The trial of an activist named Tong Ying-kit who allegedly rammed a bike into police officers during last year’s protests began last week, without jury or bail.

Tong was the first person to be arrested under the draconian law, and faces charges of terrorism and inciting secession. He has also been charged for driving dangerously. To all charges, Tong pleaded not guilty.

Guilty of democracy?

In just January alone, over 50 pro-democracy activists were arrested in regards to an unofficial vote organised by the opposition to select their best candidates for an election which has remained postponed since then.

According to Hong Kong authorities, the primary vote marked a “vicious plot” to subvert the government. Out of the 50, 47 were charged with conspiracy to commit subversion on February 28 and most of them still remain in detention.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/hong-kong-tabloid-apple-dailys-closure-a-sad-day-for-media-says-biden-393762" hreflang="en">Hong Kong tabloid Apple Daily's closure a 'sad day' for media, says Biden</a>

The most high-profile arrest took place in August 2020 when media tycoon and Beijing critic Jimmy Lai was taken into custody. Beijing has called him a “traitor”, accusing him of colluding with foreign forces. Currently, he is in prison for several sentences related to unauthorised assemblies during 2019 protests.

In June 2021, Lai’s Apple Daily newspaper was raided by 500 police officers. Five executives of the newspaper were arrested on suspicion of colluding with a foreign country and two journalists of the paper were arrested for similar reasons a few days later.&nbsp;

The newspaper has shut its doors and will no longer publish in the face of mounting pressure from China.

Under China’s tightened grip, the semi-autonomous city of Hong Kong has arrested at least 117 people for violating the contentious national security law which limits the scope of dissent in the former British territory.

Under China’s tightened grip, the semi-autonomous city of Hong Kong has arrested at least 117 people for violating the contentious national security law which limits the scope of dissent in the former British territory. Since the imposition of the security law, many pro-democracy voices have been arrested in Hong Kong including 60 pro-democracy politicians, activists, students, and journalists. Beijing imposed the security law in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020 after months of protests against the Communist Party rocked the city. Essentially, anybody found indulging in whatever China sees as acts of subversion, terrorism, secession and collusion with outside forces could be sentenced to life in prison. The law was enforced on priority, just a few hours into July 1, the same day Hong Kong was passed on from Britishers to China in 1997. Activists in the city and critics from outside claim that the law is being used to curtail freedoms and rights in the only territory within China to offer liberties unavailable elsewhere. Supporters of the law believe that it was imperative to fix “loopholes” that were brought to the public fore in the aftermath of 2019 protests. Hong Kong’s Security Bureau told Reuters that the law has “stopped chaos and restored order”, while referring to the those arrested “a very small number of the population”, standing at “about 0.0016%”. Even though activists with a certain political leaning have been taken into custody, the Security Bureau claims that arrests had “nothing to do with their political stance, background or profession”. Hong Kong attacks dissent on multiple fronts The ages of those arrested vary, with the youngest being a 15-year-old to the oldest being a 79-year-old. Last year on July 1, ten people were arrested the under law who were protesting it. The law’s provisions deny bail and the scope of a jury during trial. Also read: China reshuffles Hong Kong top officials The trial of an activist named Tong Ying-kit who allegedly rammed a bike into police officers during last year’s protests began last week, without jury or bail. Tong was the first person to be arrested under the draconian law, and faces charges of terrorism and inciting secession. He has also been charged for driving dangerously. To all charges, Tong pleaded not guilty. Guilty of democracy? In just January alone, over 50 pro-democracy activists were arrested in regards to an unofficial vote organised by the opposition to select their best candidates for an election which has remained postponed since then. According to Hong Kong authorities, the primary vote marked a “vicious plot” to subvert the government. Out of the 50, 47 were charged with conspiracy to commit subversion on February 28 and most of them still remain in detention. Also read: Hong Kong tabloid Apple Daily's closure a 'sad day' for media, says Biden The most high-profile arrest took place in August 2020 when media tycoon and Beijing critic Jimmy Lai was taken into custody. Beijing has called him a “traitor”, accusing him of colluding with foreign forces. Currently, he is in prison for several sentences related to unauthorised assemblies during 2019 protests. In June 2021, Lai’s Apple Daily newspaper was raided by 500 police officers. Five executives of the newspaper were arrested on suspicion of colluding with a foreign country and two journalists of the paper were arrested for similar reasons a few days later. The newspaper has shut its doors and will no longer publish in the face of mounting pressure from China.

One year into contentious security law, Hong Kong has made 117 arrests

Hong Kong continues to fall deeper into a Beijing-sized hole of communism with the&nbsp;systematic decimation of democratic freedoms in the former British colony. In a year since the National Security Law was imposed, at least 117 people have been taken into custody for trespassing the basic tenets of what is prohibited under the law.

When the law was still being processed, China’s Communist Party hoped to chastise the pro-democracy revolution that was violently erupting on the streets against Beijing’s increasing role in the semi-autonomous city’s politics.

The sweeping law criminalises an array of acts which authorities perceive as detrimental to national security. The most common charges are subversion, secession, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces. These are extremely serious charges in any country and in Hong Kong, activists could face up to life in prison for supporting democracy.&nbsp;

A slew of arrests made over the last year shed light on the pronounced crisis unfolding in Hong Kong which is tremendously changing the city’s political, legal, and social landscape. Here’s a look at a few defining trends

Jimmy Lai’s arrest

Perhaps the most high-profile arrest in the last year, the outspoken media tycoon’s democratic hopes for the city were quashed when the 73-year-old was sentenced to 14 months in prison in April 2021 for participating in pro-democracy protests that rocked Hong Kong last year.&nbsp;

<img alt="lai" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21609937-5314-46e1-b518-9ce478f60419" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_69.jpg" />

Even then, Lai faces six more charges, two of which were imposed under the contentious National Security Law, under which the maximum sentence is for life.

Even now, it is entirely possible for new charges against him to prop up for being a “traitor” in the eyes of Beijing.&nbsp;

Apple Daily’s demise

Jimmy Lai’s Apple Daily, a newspaper that remained critical of Chinese authorities until its last edition was forced into submission after a slew of intimidation tactics which culminated into its closure on June 23.

Before the announcement, 500 police officers raided the daily’s office for articles that didn’t sit well with China.&nbsp;

<img alt="Apple Daily" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd51928-4850-4c48-bd5e-ccc1a33309ff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_55.jpg" />

Soon after, five executives of the newspaper including chief editor Ryan Law and CEO Cheung Kim-hung were arrested for allegedly “colluding with foreign forces”, a common charge used against democratic voices under the law.

What really butchered the newspaper was the freeze on its assets amounting up to $2.3 million (HK $1.8 mn). Without the funds and in the face of mounting pressure, the newspaper couldn’t continue publishing.

Under the National Security Law, authorities can freeze assets of any person or company that are seen as a security threat without a court order.

The opposition

Unlike the rest of China, Hong Kong allows democratic elections and some degree of freedom of speech to its citizens. While Beijing brewed the draconian law, opposition leaders in Hong Kong convened to initiate the process of primary elections, aimed at amplifying voices of democracy.

<img alt="opposition" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86d63fd0-31c1-4243-b185-9dde31868bd6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_44.jpg" />

But things turned dire soon. In January, 50 of these pro-democracy politicians were arrested in regards to an unofficial vote organised by the opposition to select their best candidates for an election which has remained postponed since then.

Out of the 50 politicians, 47 were charged with conspiracy to commit subversion on February 28 and most of them still remain in detention.

According to Hong Kong authorities, the primary vote marked a “vicious plot” to subvert the government.

Tong Ying-kit

The first person to be arrested under the sweeping law, Tong Ying-kit allegedly rammed his bike into police officers during last year’s violent protests. At the time, Tong was sloganeering in favour of democracy.

<img alt="first arrest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="71a96060-394a-4338-b945-6fdb7ba79fb7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/4_15.jpg" />

Tong’s trial began last week and he was denied bail and the scope of jury, which are becoming the hallmarks of Hong Kong’s National Security Law. He faces charges of terrorism and inciting secession, to which he has pleaded “not guilty”. In addition, the activist may face charges for reckless driving.

<img alt="HK" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a06a65f2-1ec1-4daa-9e96-a560fec1e4db" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/5_9.jpg" />

These are just a few of many voices that are being punished in Hong Kong for protecting the sacred democratic tenet of dissent.

In total, at least 117 people have been arrested based on the law’s provisions over the last year, especially activists, journalists, and students - a worrying trend for the city of Hong Kong, which remained relatively free from the clutches of Chinese Communist Party until the violent protests that altered the course of what now constitutes normal life in the city.

Hong Kong’s Security Bureau believes the law has ended a trail of chaos in the city and has begun the era of “order” again, but the fear instilled in the city's free&nbsp;media and activists signals to the death of democracy.

Hong Kong continues to fall deeper into a Beijing-sized hole of communism with the systematic decimation of democratic freedoms in the former British colony. In a year since the National Security Law was imposed, at least 117 people have been taken into custody for trespassing the basic tenets of what is prohibited under the law.

Hong Kong continues to fall deeper into a Beijing-sized hole of communism with the systematic decimation of democratic freedoms in the former British colony. In a year since the National Security Law was imposed, at least 117 people have been taken into custody for trespassing the basic tenets of what is prohibited under the law. When the law was still being processed, China’s Communist Party hoped to chastise the pro-democracy revolution that was violently erupting on the streets against Beijing’s increasing role in the semi-autonomous city’s politics. The sweeping law criminalises an array of acts which authorities perceive as detrimental to national security. The most common charges are subversion, secession, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces. These are extremely serious charges in any country and in Hong Kong, activists could face up to life in prison for supporting democracy. A slew of arrests made over the last year shed light on the pronounced crisis unfolding in Hong Kong which is tremendously changing the city’s political, legal, and social landscape. Here’s a look at a few defining trends Jimmy Lai’s arrest Perhaps the most high-profile arrest in the last year, the outspoken media tycoon’s democratic hopes for the city were quashed when the 73-year-old was sentenced to 14 months in prison in April 2021 for participating in pro-democracy protests that rocked Hong Kong last year. Even then, Lai faces six more charges, two of which were imposed under the contentious National Security Law, under which the maximum sentence is for life. Even now, it is entirely possible for new charges against him to prop up for being a “traitor” in the eyes of Beijing. Apple Daily’s demise Jimmy Lai’s Apple Daily, a newspaper that remained critical of Chinese authorities until its last edition was forced into submission after a slew of intimidation tactics which culminated into its closure on June 23. Before the announcement, 500 police officers raided the daily’s office for articles that didn’t sit well with China. Soon after, five executives of the newspaper including chief editor Ryan Law and CEO Cheung Kim-hung were arrested for allegedly “colluding with foreign forces”, a common charge used against democratic voices under the law. What really butchered the newspaper was the freeze on its assets amounting up to $2.3 million (HK $1.8 mn). Without the funds and in the face of mounting pressure, the newspaper couldn’t continue publishing. Under the National Security Law, authorities can freeze assets of any person or company that are seen as a security threat without a court order. The opposition Unlike the rest of China, Hong Kong allows democratic elections and some degree of freedom of speech to its citizens. While Beijing brewed the draconian law, opposition leaders in Hong Kong convened to initiate the process of primary elections, aimed at amplifying voices of democracy. But things turned dire soon. In January, 50 of these pro-democracy politicians were arrested in regards to an unofficial vote organised by the opposition to select their best candidates for an election which has remained postponed since then. Out of the 50 politicians, 47 were charged with conspiracy to commit subversion on February 28 and most of them still remain in detention. According to Hong Kong authorities, the primary vote marked a “vicious plot” to subvert the government. Tong Ying-kit The first person to be arrested under the sweeping law, Tong Ying-kit allegedly rammed his bike into police officers during last year’s violent protests. At the time, Tong was sloganeering in favour of democracy. Tong’s trial began last week and he was denied bail and the scope of jury, which are becoming the hallmarks of Hong Kong’s National Security Law. He faces charges of terrorism and inciting secession, to which he has pleaded “not guilty”. In addition, the activist may face charges for reckless driving. These are just a few of many voices that are being punished in Hong Kong for protecting the sacred democratic tenet of dissent. In total, at least 117 people have been arrested based on the law’s provisions over the last year, especially activists, journalists, and students - a worrying trend for the city of Hong Kong, which remained relatively free from the clutches of Chinese Communist Party until the violent protests that altered the course of what now constitutes normal life in the city. Hong Kong’s Security Bureau believes the law has ended a trail of chaos in the city and has begun the era of “order” again, but the fear instilled in the city's free media and activists signals to the death of democracy.

A year of Hong Kong security law: Crackdown on people and the press

Critics of the legislation, including some Western governments and rights groups, say it has been used to crush dissent.

One year of Hong Kong's security Law

From Thursday, Hong Kong will ban all passenger flights from the United Kingdom. This comes as authorities in Hong Kong put measures in place to cut the spread of the Delta Variant of Coronavirus.

Hong Kong to ban all passenger flights from United Kingdom

According to an internal memo seen by Reuters, Hong Kong media group Next Digital, owned by jailed tycoon&nbsp;Jimmy&nbsp;Lai, will cease operating from July 1 after the company's assets were frozen as part of a national security investigation.

Next Digital did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The company is the publisher of Apple Daily, a popular pro-democracy newspaper that closed last week after its newsroom had been raided by 500 police officers investigating whether some articles breached the security law.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongs-pro-democracy-apple-daily-signs-off-in-painful-farewell-393526">Hong Kong's pro-democracy Apple Daily signs off in painful farewell</a>

Beijing imposed the legislation in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020. It punishes acts deemed by China to be subversive, secessionist, terrorism or collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison.

Critics say it has been used to crush dissent, while its supporters said it has restored order in Hong Kong after months of pro-democracy protests.

The Next Digital memo, shared separately by two employees, said assets linked to the company remained frozen under the national security investigation.

Dated June 30, the memo was addressed to all Hong Kong staff from the board.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-year-of-hong-kong-security-law-crackdown-on-people-and-the-press-394849">A year of Hong Kong security law: Crackdown on people and the press</a>

"The group will cease operations," it said. "Although the road ahead is difficult, continue to move forward!"

The Hong Kong Security Bureau, which directed the asset freeze, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Lai, a staunch Beijing critic, was arrested last year on suspicion of colluding with foreign forces. He is currently serving a prison sentence for taking part in illegal assemblies during Hong Kong's mass 2019 pro-democracy protests.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-year-into-contentious-security-law-hong-kong-has-made-117-arrests-394837">One year into contentious security law, Hong Kong has made 117 arrests</a>

Next Digital, which had a market capitalisation of HK$765 million ($98.52 million), said in a statement to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on Tuesday that it had accepted a proposal to divest Amazing Sino, which operates the online edition of Taiwan's Apple Daily.

It had earlier ceased printing its Taiwan edition on the democratic island, which China views as a breakaway province, blaming declining advertising revenue and difficult business conditions in Hong Kong linked to politics.

According to an internal memo seen by Reuters, Hong Kong media group Next Digital, owned by jailed tycoon Jimmy Lai, will cease operating from July 1 after the company's assets were frozen as part of a national security investigation.

According to an internal memo seen by Reuters, Hong Kong media group Next Digital, owned by jailed tycoon Jimmy Lai, will cease operating from July 1 after the company's assets were frozen as part of a national security investigation. Next Digital did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The company is the publisher of Apple Daily, a popular pro-democracy newspaper that closed last week after its newsroom had been raided by 500 police officers investigating whether some articles breached the security law. Also read | Hong Kong's pro-democracy Apple Daily signs off in painful farewell Beijing imposed the legislation in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020. It punishes acts deemed by China to be subversive, secessionist, terrorism or collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. Critics say it has been used to crush dissent, while its supporters said it has restored order in Hong Kong after months of pro-democracy protests. The Next Digital memo, shared separately by two employees, said assets linked to the company remained frozen under the national security investigation. Dated June 30, the memo was addressed to all Hong Kong staff from the board. Also read | A year of Hong Kong security law: Crackdown on people and the press "The group will cease operations," it said. "Although the road ahead is difficult, continue to move forward!" The Hong Kong Security Bureau, which directed the asset freeze, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Lai, a staunch Beijing critic, was arrested last year on suspicion of colluding with foreign forces. He is currently serving a prison sentence for taking part in illegal assemblies during Hong Kong's mass 2019 pro-democracy protests. Also read | One year into contentious security law, Hong Kong has made 117 arrests Next Digital, which had a market capitalisation of HK$765 million ($98.52 million), said in a statement to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on Tuesday that it had accepted a proposal to divest Amazing Sino, which operates the online edition of Taiwan's Apple Daily. It had earlier ceased printing its Taiwan edition on the democratic island, which China views as a breakaway province, blaming declining advertising revenue and difficult business conditions in Hong Kong linked to politics.

Hong Kong tycoon Jimmy Lai's Next Digital to stop operating from July 1: Memo

Freedom of the press is under assault in Hong Kong. After the demise of Apple Daily another pro-democracy news outlet Stand news has announced that it will remove opinion articles and columns it published before June and stop accepting donations.

Hong Kong: Pro-democracy news outlet Stand News closes opinion columns

Hong Kong police arrested a former senior journalist with the Apple Daily newspaper at the international airport on Sunday night on a suspected national security charge as he tried to leave the city, according to media reports. 
 
Fung Wai-kong would be the seventh staffer at the pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper to be arrested on national security grounds in recent weeks. He was an editor and columnist at the now-closed paper, Hong Kong media reported. 
 
Police said in a statement that a 57-year-old man had been arrested at the airport for 'conspiring to collude with foreign countries or foreign forces to endanger national security'. They added that he had been detained and investigations were continuing. 
 
A former Apple Daily journalist, Jack Hazelwood, said on Twitter that Fung was attempting to board a flight to London and called on British authorities to take action. 
 
Apple Daily, a popular tabloid, was forced to fold following a raid by several hundred police on its headquarters on June 17 and the freezing of key assets and bank accounts. It printed its last edition last Thursday. 
 
Authorities say dozens of the paper's articles may have violated a China-imposed national security law, the first instance of authorities taking aim at media reports under the legislation. 
 
Critics of the law, introduced last June, say it has been used to stifle dissent and erode fundamental freedoms in the former British colony that returned to Chinese rule in 1997. 
 
Some of the critics also say the closure of Apple Daily, which mixes pro-democracy views with celebrity gossip and investigations of those in power, marks the end of an era for media freedom in the city. 
 
Officials in Hong Kong and China have repeatedly said media freedoms are respected but not absolute, and cannot endanger national security. 
 
The shutdown of Apple is the latest setback for media tycoon Jimmy Lai, the newspaper's owner and a staunch Beijing critic, whose assets have been frozen under the legislation and who is serving prison sentences for taking part in illegal assemblies. 
 
Lai is also awaiting trial after being charged with collusion with foreign forces, which carries up to life in jail. 
 
The Hong Kong Journalists'&nbsp;Association, reacting to reports of the airport arrest, condemned the police for targeting journalists again, and asked them to explain the incident. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong police arrested a former senior journalist with the Apple Daily newspaper at the international airport on Sunday night on a suspected national security charge as he tried to leave the city, according to media reports.

Hong Kong police arrested a former senior journalist with the Apple Daily newspaper at the international airport on Sunday night on a suspected national security charge as he tried to leave the city, according to media reports. Fung Wai-kong would be the seventh staffer at the pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper to be arrested on national security grounds in recent weeks. He was an editor and columnist at the now-closed paper, Hong Kong media reported. Police said in a statement that a 57-year-old man had been arrested at the airport for 'conspiring to collude with foreign countries or foreign forces to endanger national security'. They added that he had been detained and investigations were continuing. A former Apple Daily journalist, Jack Hazelwood, said on Twitter that Fung was attempting to board a flight to London and called on British authorities to take action. Apple Daily, a popular tabloid, was forced to fold following a raid by several hundred police on its headquarters on June 17 and the freezing of key assets and bank accounts. It printed its last edition last Thursday. Authorities say dozens of the paper's articles may have violated a China-imposed national security law, the first instance of authorities taking aim at media reports under the legislation. Critics of the law, introduced last June, say it has been used to stifle dissent and erode fundamental freedoms in the former British colony that returned to Chinese rule in 1997. Some of the critics also say the closure of Apple Daily, which mixes pro-democracy views with celebrity gossip and investigations of those in power, marks the end of an era for media freedom in the city. Officials in Hong Kong and China have repeatedly said media freedoms are respected but not absolute, and cannot endanger national security. The shutdown of Apple is the latest setback for media tycoon Jimmy Lai, the newspaper's owner and a staunch Beijing critic, whose assets have been frozen under the legislation and who is serving prison sentences for taking part in illegal assemblies. Lai is also awaiting trial after being charged with collusion with foreign forces, which carries up to life in jail. The Hong Kong Journalists' Association, reacting to reports of the airport arrest, condemned the police for targeting journalists again, and asked them to explain the incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong police arrest former Apple Daily journalist at airport: Media

A fire swept through a marina in Hong Kong in the early hours of Sunday, igniting fuel tanks as it passed along a line of closely moored cabin cruisers, and resulting in at least 10 sinking before firefighters extinguished the blaze. 
 
Authorities in the Asian financial hub said at least 16 vessels were set ablaze, including those that sank, but there were no serious casualties. 
 
The fire at the shelter in the city’s Aberdeen district began around 2.30 am (1830 GMT on Saturday) and took firefighters more than six hours to put out. 
 
Fuel tanks could be heard exploding as thick smoke billowed skyward, covering the marina and neighbouring tower blocks, video footage showed. 
 
Around 35 people were rescued from the vessels, RTHK public broadcaster reported, citing the fire services department. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A fire swept through a marina in Hong Kong in the early hours of Sunday, igniting fuel tanks as it passed along a line of closely moored cabin cruisers, and resulting in at least 10 sinking before firefighters extinguished the blaze.

A fire swept through a marina in Hong Kong in the early hours of Sunday, igniting fuel tanks as it passed along a line of closely moored cabin cruisers, and resulting in at least 10 sinking before firefighters extinguished the blaze. Authorities in the Asian financial hub said at least 16 vessels were set ablaze, including those that sank, but there were no serious casualties. The fire at the shelter in the city’s Aberdeen district began around 2.30 am (1830 GMT on Saturday) and took firefighters more than six hours to put out. Fuel tanks could be heard exploding as thick smoke billowed skyward, covering the marina and neighbouring tower blocks, video footage showed. Around 35 people were rescued from the vessels, RTHK public broadcaster reported, citing the fire services department. (With inputs from agencies)

Ten cabin cruisers sink in Hong Kong marina fire

Hong&nbsp;Kong's new police chief called for a fake news law on Saturday and blamed the media for plunging trust in his officers in the politically polarised finance hub.

His call comes as authorities carry out a sweeping crackdown on dissent and just days after outspoken newspaper Apple Daily was forced to fold following the freezing of its accounts under a tough new national security law.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongs-pro-democracy-apple-daily-signs-off-in-painful-farewell-393526">Hong Kong's pro-democracy Apple Daily signs off in painful farewell</a>

Surveys show the police have been the least popular disciplinary service in the city since Hong Kong was rocked by huge and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests in 2019, during which allegations of police brutality emerged.

Police chief Raymond Siu said much of the blame lay with the media.

"I understand that there are residents who are still hostile against us. In this regard, I told my colleagues that many of these torn relationships and hostility against the police are due to fake news," Siu said at his first media briefing since taking office.

"There is no legal definition of fake news at the moment, but if there is any legislation that could help us bring these people to justice, as law enforcers, we absolutely welcome it," he added.

Hong Kong's demonstrations subsided last year due to mass arrests, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus pandemic</a> and Beijing's imposition of the security law, which critics argue has been used to curb dissent.

Three former police officers were on Friday promoted to key positions in government, with former security minister John Lee becoming the city's new number two official and an ex-police chief stepping into Lee's security bureau role.

Last Thursday 500 police officers raided the newsroom of pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily as authorities froze the company's assets under the security law.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-raid-pro-democracy-newspaper-apple-daily-arrest-editor-and-four-other-executives-392042">Hong Kong police raid pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, arrest editor and four other executives</a>

Five executives of the paper were arrested and two were charged with conspiracy to collude with foreign forces.&nbsp;

Apple Daily's lead editorial writer was also arrested on Wednesday and the paper was forced to fold, saying it feared for the safety of staff.

Siu however said police were targeting national security offenders and not the news media.

Hong Kong's new police chief called for a fake news law on Saturday and blamed the media for plunging trust in his officers in the politically polarised finance hub.

Hong Kong's new police chief called for a fake news law on Saturday and blamed the media for plunging trust in his officers in the politically polarised finance hub. His call comes as authorities carry out a sweeping crackdown on dissent and just days after outspoken newspaper Apple Daily was forced to fold following the freezing of its accounts under a tough new national security law. Also read | Hong Kong's pro-democracy Apple Daily signs off in painful farewell Surveys show the police have been the least popular disciplinary service in the city since Hong Kong was rocked by huge and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests in 2019, during which allegations of police brutality emerged. Police chief Raymond Siu said much of the blame lay with the media. "I understand that there are residents who are still hostile against us. In this regard, I told my colleagues that many of these torn relationships and hostility against the police are due to fake news," Siu said at his first media briefing since taking office. "There is no legal definition of fake news at the moment, but if there is any legislation that could help us bring these people to justice, as law enforcers, we absolutely welcome it," he added. Hong Kong's demonstrations subsided last year due to mass arrests, the coronavirus pandemic and Beijing's imposition of the security law, which critics argue has been used to curb dissent. Three former police officers were on Friday promoted to key positions in government, with former security minister John Lee becoming the city's new number two official and an ex-police chief stepping into Lee's security bureau role. Last Thursday 500 police officers raided the newsroom of pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily as authorities froze the company's assets under the security law. Also read | Hong Kong police raid pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, arrest editor and four other executives Five executives of the paper were arrested and two were charged with conspiracy to collude with foreign forces. Apple Daily's lead editorial writer was also arrested on Wednesday and the paper was forced to fold, saying it feared for the safety of staff. Siu however said police were targeting national security offenders and not the news media.

Hong Kong police chief calls for fake news law

China on Friday approved the promotion of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's security secretary John Lee to the chief secretary, while police chief Chris Tang will take Lee's position in what critics say will further tighten Beijing's security squeeze on the global financial hub.

The elevation of Lee, 63, a former police deputy commissioner, to the chief secretary, is the first time a security specialist has taken on the number two position in the territory since&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997.

Other former chief secretaries have had extensive economic and social policy-making expertise.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-person-charged-under-hong-kongs-national-security-law-pleads-not-guilty-393271">First person charged under Hong Kong's national security law pleads not guilty</a>

"They have had distinguished performance in the government over the years and possess proven leadership skills," Chief Executive Carrie Lam,&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's leader, said in a statement. "I am confident that they are competent for their new posts and would rise to the challenges in serving the community."

Beijing's imposition of sweeping national security law in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;in June 2020 has put China's freest city on an authoritarian trajectory, with mass arrests of democratic campaigners, curbs on public assemblies and free speech.

The reshuffle could further empower security officials, critics say, who have faithfully implemented Beijing's new security regimen to strengthen control and clamp down on freedoms in the former British colony after mass pro-democracy protests in 2019.

"The promotion of John Lee and Chris Tang completes the swift and total transformation of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;into a police state," said Samuel Chu of the&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;Democracy Council.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-lam-says-action-against-apple-daily-does-not-target-press-freedom-393069">Hong Kong leader Lam says action against Apple Daily does not target press freedom</a>

Lam and Lee are expected to travel to Beijing for the Chinese Communist Party's centenary celebrations next week, local media reported.

Lee and Tang, 55, were among 11&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;and Chinese officials sanctioned by the US&nbsp;government last August for undermining&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong’s autonomy and democratic processes after the enactment of the national security law.

That clampdown has seen mass arrests of democratic activists and politicians, and a freeze on the assets of the pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper on national security grounds that led to its abrupt closure this week.

Chinese and&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;officials say the national security law has restored stability and order to&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, maintaining that rights and freedoms aren't absolute.

One source who has worked with Lee said he is resolute, earnest and efficient but, as a career police officer, "doesn't have a natural feel for the politics of a highly-polarised&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong."

China on Friday approved the promotion of Hong Kong's security secretary John Lee to the chief secretary, while police chief Chris Tang will take Lee's position in what critics say will further tighten Beijing's security squeeze on the global financial hub.

China on Friday approved the promotion of Hong Kong's security secretary John Lee to the chief secretary, while police chief Chris Tang will take Lee's position in what critics say will further tighten Beijing's security squeeze on the global financial hub. The elevation of Lee, 63, a former police deputy commissioner, to the chief secretary, is the first time a security specialist has taken on the number two position in the territory since Hong Kong's handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997. Other former chief secretaries have had extensive economic and social policy-making expertise. Also read | First person charged under Hong Kong's national security law pleads not guilty "They have had distinguished performance in the government over the years and possess proven leadership skills," Chief Executive Carrie Lam, Hong Kong's leader, said in a statement. "I am confident that they are competent for their new posts and would rise to the challenges in serving the community." Beijing's imposition of sweeping national security law in Hong Kong in June 2020 has put China's freest city on an authoritarian trajectory, with mass arrests of democratic campaigners, curbs on public assemblies and free speech. The reshuffle could further empower security officials, critics say, who have faithfully implemented Beijing's new security regimen to strengthen control and clamp down on freedoms in the former British colony after mass pro-democracy protests in 2019. "The promotion of John Lee and Chris Tang completes the swift and total transformation of Hong Kong into a police state," said Samuel Chu of the Hong Kong Democracy Council. Also read | Hong Kong leader Lam says action against Apple Daily does not target press freedom Lam and Lee are expected to travel to Beijing for the Chinese Communist Party's centenary celebrations next week, local media reported. Lee and Tang, 55, were among 11 Hong Kong and Chinese officials sanctioned by the US government last August for undermining Hong Kong’s autonomy and democratic processes after the enactment of the national security law. That clampdown has seen mass arrests of democratic activists and politicians, and a freeze on the assets of the pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper on national security grounds that led to its abrupt closure this week. Chinese and Hong Kong officials say the national security law has restored stability and order to Hong Kong, maintaining that rights and freedoms aren't absolute. One source who has worked with Lee said he is resolute, earnest and efficient but, as a career police officer, "doesn't have a natural feel for the politics of a highly-polarised Hong Kong."

China reshuffles Hong Kong top officials

Taking the progressive mindset a step forward, Hong Kong’s High Court has ruled in favour of the LGBTQ community with regard to owning subsidised housing.

The Hong Kong High Court ruled that the existing housing policies are discriminatory as it denies same-sex couples to own a house together.

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Although Hong Kong does not recognise same-sex marriage, the court said not acknowledging same-sex partners as a tenant’s family member "constitute unlawful discrimination on the ground of sexual orientation".

Henry Li and his deceased partner Edgar Ng filed a case against the city government’s discriminatory policies in 2019, but Ng took his own life in December after battling depression. The hearings for this case began only in April 2021.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-slams-hungarys-anti-lgbt-law-as-an-affront-to-human-rights-392475">Britain slams Hungary's anti-LGBT+ law as an 'affront to human rights'</a>

Ng believed that if he dies died his property would not be passed on to his partner, which was discriminatory and unfair, and therefore the couple had filed against this rule.

In the recent hearing, the Justice Anderson Chow said that the city housing policies should not deny same-sex partners joint occupancy and ownership rights as it is a violation of the Basic Law.

Taking the progressive mindset a step forward, Hong Kong’s High Court has ruled in favour of the LGBTQ community with regard to owning subsidised housing. The Hong Kong High Court ruled that the existing housing policies are discriminatory as it denies same-sex couples to own a house together.

Taking the progressive mindset a step forward, Hong Kong’s High Court has ruled in favour of the LGBTQ community with regard to owning subsidised housing. The Hong Kong High Court ruled that the existing housing policies are discriminatory as it denies same-sex couples to own a house together. Also read | Thousands take part in Poland's Pride march Although Hong Kong does not recognise same-sex marriage, the court said not acknowledging same-sex partners as a tenant’s family member "constitute unlawful discrimination on the ground of sexual orientation". Henry Li and his deceased partner Edgar Ng filed a case against the city government’s discriminatory policies in 2019, but Ng took his own life in December after battling depression. The hearings for this case began only in April 2021. Also read | Britain slams Hungary's anti-LGBT+ law as an 'affront to human rights' Ng believed that if he dies died his property would not be passed on to his partner, which was discriminatory and unfair, and therefore the couple had filed against this rule. In the recent hearing, the Justice Anderson Chow said that the city housing policies should not deny same-sex partners joint occupancy and ownership rights as it is a violation of the Basic Law.

'Discriminatory policy': Hong Kong court rules in favour of LGBTQ community

US President Joe Biden on Thursday said that closure of Hong Kong tabloid Apple Daily was a "sad day for media freedom in Hong Kong and around the world". The financial hub's pro-democracy tabloid was forced to close under Hong Kong's new national security law.

The newspaper published a defiant final edition on Thursday. In the final edition, it said it had been a "victim of tyranny" after 26 years of facing up to China's authoritarian leaders.

"It is a sad day for media freedom in Hong Kong and around the world," Biden said in a statement released by the White House.

"Intensifying repression by Beijing has reached such a level that Apple Daily, a much-needed bastion of independent journalism in Hong Kong, has now ceased publishing," he continued.

"Through arrests, threats, and forcing through a National Security Law that penalizes free speech, Beijing has insisted on wielding its power to suppress independent media and silence dissenting views."

The prosecution of Apple Daily was sparked by articles and columns that allegedly supported international sanctions against China, a view now deemed illegal under the new security law imposed on Hong Kong last year.

The sudden death of the popular newspaper is the latest blow to Hong Kong's freedoms, deepening unease over whether the international finance centre can remain a media hub as China seeks to stamp out dissent.

Praising the "invaluable role" that independent media plays in "resilient and prosperous societies," Biden called on Beijing to halt its crackdown on the media.

"Beijing must stop targeting the independent press and release the journalists and media executives that have been detained," he said.

"The act of journalism is not a crime."

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden on Thursday said that closure of Hong Kong tabloid Apple Daily was a "sad day for media freedom in Hong Kong and around the world". The financial hub's pro-democracy tabloid was forced to close under Hong Kong's new national security law.

US President Joe Biden on Thursday said that closure of Hong Kong tabloid Apple Daily was a "sad day for media freedom in Hong Kong and around the world". The financial hub's pro-democracy tabloid was forced to close under Hong Kong's new national security law. The newspaper published a defiant final edition on Thursday. In the final edition, it said it had been a "victim of tyranny" after 26 years of facing up to China's authoritarian leaders. "It is a sad day for media freedom in Hong Kong and around the world," Biden said in a statement released by the White House. "Intensifying repression by Beijing has reached such a level that Apple Daily, a much-needed bastion of independent journalism in Hong Kong, has now ceased publishing," he continued. "Through arrests, threats, and forcing through a National Security Law that penalizes free speech, Beijing has insisted on wielding its power to suppress independent media and silence dissenting views." The prosecution of Apple Daily was sparked by articles and columns that allegedly supported international sanctions against China, a view now deemed illegal under the new security law imposed on Hong Kong last year. The sudden death of the popular newspaper is the latest blow to Hong Kong's freedoms, deepening unease over whether the international finance centre can remain a media hub as China seeks to stamp out dissent. Praising the "invaluable role" that independent media plays in "resilient and prosperous societies," Biden called on Beijing to halt its crackdown on the media. "Beijing must stop targeting the independent press and release the journalists and media executives that have been detained," he said. "The act of journalism is not a crime." (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong tabloid Apple Daily's closure a 'sad day' for media, says Biden

Hong Kong's activist leader Nathan Law who is now based in the United Kingdom has condemned the closure of the pro-democracy newspaper the Apple Daily. The 26-year-old student leader activist rose to prominence in Hong Kong as one of the foremost leaders of the pro-democracy 'Umbrella' revolution in 2014.

Hong Kong's activist leader Nathan Law condemned closure of Apple Daily newspaper

After being forced to close under a new national security law on June 24, Hong Kong's pro-democracy Apple Daily tabloid declared itself a "victim of tyranny" in a defiant final edition, ending a 26-year run of criticising China's authoritarian government.

Hong Kong's most popular tabloid had long been a thorn in Beijing's side, with unapologetic support for the city's pro-democracy movement and caustic criticism of China's authoritarian leaders.

The immediate closure of the popular newspaper is the latest setback for Hong Kong's freedoms, raising concerns about whether the international financial centre can continue to function as a media hub as China attempts to suppress dissent.

Queues formed across Hong Kong on Thursday as residents raced to snap up one of the one million copies Apple Daily said it planned to print. Many vendors sold out within minutes and were awaiting fresh deliveries. 
 
<img alt="Apple-daily" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8d54a020-2953-4e40-bcb8-07600eaa37a3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9D23J4.jpg" /> 
 
A newsstand owner poses with a copy of the Apple Daily newspaper's final edition in Hong Kong's Central district on June 24, 2021. (AFP Photo)

The swansong front page featured the paper's journalists waving goodbye to crowds outside its headquarters.

"Apple Daily is dead," deputy chief editor Chan Pui-man, who was arrested last week on a national security charge, wrote in a farewell letter to readers.

"Press freedom became the victim of tyranny."

Also Watch |&nbsp;Hong Kong's Apple Daily pro-democracy newspaper announces closure

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kongs-apple-daily-pro-democracy-newspaper-announces-closure-393442/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the working-class district of Mongkok, hundreds queued through the early hours of the morning to get their hands on the final edition, some chanting "Apple Daily we will meet again!"

"It's very shocking," a 30-year-old woman, who was in the queue and gave her first name like Candy, told AFP.

"Within two weeks, authorities could use this national security law to dismantle a listed company."

Meanwhile, the Taiwanese edition of Apply Daily promised readers that its operations would continue despite the island's government's criticism of its Hong Kong sister paper's closure under national security law. 
 
<img alt="Apple Daily" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6caae6de-dc0b-493e-be97-471288f6c3c1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9D23J6.jpg" /> 
 
People queue to buy copies of the Apple Daily newspaper's final edition in Hong Kong's Central district on June 24, 2021. (AFP Photo)

The cash-strapped Taiwanese edition of Apple Daily ceased its print edition last month, 18 years after it was founded. But its website is still going.

The company had planned to sell its Taiwanese wing in April. But its board later took a U-turn, saying the sale was no longer in its best interests.

Taiwan's top China policy-making body, the Mainland Affairs Council, warned on Thursday that the demise of the Hong Kong paper was "sounding the death knell" for the city's press and speech freedoms.

(With inputs from AFP)

After being forced to close under a new national security law on June 24, Hong Kong's pro-democracy Apple Daily tabloid declared itself a "victim of tyranny" in a defiant final edition, ending a 26-year run of criticising China's authoritarian government.

After being forced to close under a new national security law on June 24, Hong Kong's pro-democracy Apple Daily tabloid declared itself a "victim of tyranny" in a defiant final edition, ending a 26-year run of criticising China's authoritarian government. Hong Kong's most popular tabloid had long been a thorn in Beijing's side, with unapologetic support for the city's pro-democracy movement and caustic criticism of China's authoritarian leaders. The immediate closure of the popular newspaper is the latest setback for Hong Kong's freedoms, raising concerns about whether the international financial centre can continue to function as a media hub as China attempts to suppress dissent. Queues formed across Hong Kong on Thursday as residents raced to snap up one of the one million copies Apple Daily said it planned to print. Many vendors sold out within minutes and were awaiting fresh deliveries. A newsstand owner poses with a copy of the Apple Daily newspaper's final edition in Hong Kong's Central district on June 24, 2021. (AFP Photo) The swansong front page featured the paper's journalists waving goodbye to crowds outside its headquarters. "Apple Daily is dead," deputy chief editor Chan Pui-man, who was arrested last week on a national security charge, wrote in a farewell letter to readers. "Press freedom became the victim of tyranny." Also Watch | Hong Kong's Apple Daily pro-democracy newspaper announces closure In the working-class district of Mongkok, hundreds queued through the early hours of the morning to get their hands on the final edition, some chanting "Apple Daily we will meet again!" "It's very shocking," a 30-year-old woman, who was in the queue and gave her first name like Candy, told AFP. "Within two weeks, authorities could use this national security law to dismantle a listed company." Meanwhile, the Taiwanese edition of Apply Daily promised readers that its operations would continue despite the island's government's criticism of its Hong Kong sister paper's closure under national security law. People queue to buy copies of the Apple Daily newspaper's final edition in Hong Kong's Central district on June 24, 2021. (AFP Photo) The cash-strapped Taiwanese edition of Apple Daily ceased its print edition last month, 18 years after it was founded. But its website is still going. The company had planned to sell its Taiwanese wing in April. But its board later took a U-turn, saying the sale was no longer in its best interests. Taiwan's top China policy-making body, the Mainland Affairs Council, warned on Thursday that the demise of the Hong Kong paper was "sounding the death knell" for the city's press and speech freedoms. (With inputs from AFP)

Hong Kong citizens snap up final edition of Apple Daily, Taiwan edition to continue operations

The closure of the popular tabloid, which mixes pro-democracy views with celebrity gossip and investigations of those in power, marks the end of an era for media freedom in the Chinese-ruled city, critics say.

Hong Kongers snap up final edition of Apple Daily newspaper

The Sun has set on Hong Kong's sole Pro-Democracy newspaper- Apple Daily. After falling prey to China's increasing crackdown on dissent in the semi-autonomous city...The pro-democracy newspaper published its last edition.

HK's Apple Daily signs off in a painful farewell

Hong&nbsp;Kong's&nbsp;most vocal pro-democracy newspaper,&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;Daily, printed its last edition on Thursday after a stormy year in which its tycoon owner and other staff were arrested under a new national security law, and its assets were frozen.

The closure of the popular tabloid, which mixes pro-democracy views with celebrity gossip and investigations of those in power, marks the end of an era for media freedom in the Chinese-ruled city, critics say.

"Thank you to all readers, subscribers, ad clients and&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kongers for 26 years of immense love and support. Here we say goodbye, take care of yourselves," the paper said in an online article.

Hundreds of supporters gathered outside&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;Daily's building on Wednesday night to show support, sometimes in heavy rain, and waved smartphone lights. Journalists came out onto the balcony and responded with their own phones.

The last front page carried a photograph of a member of staff waving at supporters, with the headline "Hong&nbsp;Kongers bid a&nbsp;painful farewell&nbsp;in the rain".

A Reuters reporter present in the&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;Daily&nbsp;newsroom saw dozens of journalists break into applause once the final edition was sent to press, and some in tears.

Reporter Alvin Chan went outside to distribute free copies to the supporters, saying: "I hope everyone can ... continue to believe in our values."

The paper, whose online version will also stop updating, said it was printing a million copies of its last edition - more than 10 times its normal print run.

Shortly after midnight, some newsstands waiting for delivery already had hundreds of people queueing.

Apple&nbsp;Daily's support for democratic rights and freedoms has made it a thorn in Beijing's side since owner Jimmy Lai, a self-made tycoon who was smuggled from mainland China into&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong on a fishing boat at the age of 12, started it in 1995.

It shook up the region's Chinese-language media landscape and became a champion of democracy on the margins of Communist China. Its demise leaves only a handful of small online outlets on that side of politics, including Stand News and Citizen News.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/john-mcafee-antivirus-software-creator-turned-fugitive-dies-by-hanging-in-spanish-jail-393513">Also Read |&nbsp;John McAfee, antivirus software creator turned fugitive, dies by hanging in Spanish jail</a>

Staff unions at Citizen News and six other media groups said they would wear black on Thursday in protest at what they described as "the government’s blow against freedom of the press". Management at Citizen News and Stand News could not be reached for comment.

CHALLENGE TO BEIJING

Apple&nbsp;Daily's supporters championed it as a beacon of media freedom in the Chinese-speaking world. It repeatedly challenged Beijing's authoritarianism and was read by dissidents and a more liberal Chinese diaspora.

Lai, whose assets have been frozen, has been in jail since December on charges, stemming from pro-democracy protests, of taking part in unauthorised assemblies.

Some rights groups, media organisations and Western governments have criticised the action against the newspaper.

Hong&nbsp;Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday that criticism of the raid on the newspaper amounted to attempts to "beautify" acts that endangered national security. Chinese&nbsp;officials have denounced the criticism as interference.

Hong&nbsp;Kong and mainland&nbsp;officials have repeatedly said that media freedoms are respected but are not absolute.

Apple&nbsp;Daily, which was published by Next Digital and employed hundreds of journalists, said in its online article that the decision to close was "based on employee safety and manpower considerations".

Since being raided by police, the newspaper says it has suffered mass resignations and entire departments have had to close.

Last week, the assets of companies linked to the newspaper were frozen and five executives were arrested. On Wednesday, police arrested a columnist on suspicion of conspiring to collude with foreign forces.

Apple&nbsp;Daily&nbsp;and Next Digital management could not be reached to comment further.

In an interview with Reuters, an adviser to Lai said on Monday that the paper would close "in a matter of days".

The paper's newsroom was raided by about 200 police last August, when Lai was arrested on suspicion of colluding with foreign forces, and again last week, by 500 police, when the other executives were detained.

INCREASED PRINT RUN

On both occasions, the paper said it had increased its print run to 500,000 the following day from the usual 80,000, and residents of the city of 7.5 million snapped it up before dawn.

The police action was the most direct attack on&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's&nbsp;freewheeling media since Beijing regained control of the city in 1997.

Authorities in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong have said the moves against&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;Daily&nbsp;were not targeting the media industry or press freedom.

The security law imposed on the city last year as Beijing's first major move to put&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong on a more authoritarian path.

Lam and other pro-Beijing&nbsp;officials have said it has restored stability after months of often violent pro-democracy protests.

The Taiwan arm of&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;Daily&nbsp;said it would continue to publish online, as its finances are independent.

Apple&nbsp;Daily&nbsp;has come under increasing pressure since Lai was arrested last year under the security legislation.

Authorities have said dozens of&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;Daily&nbsp;articles may have violated the security law, the first instance of authorities taking aim at media reports under the legislation.

Next Digital has been kept afloat by loans from Lai. In May, Reuters reported exclusively that&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong’s security chief had sent letters to branches of HSBC and Citibank threatening up to seven years’ jail for any dealings with the billionaire's account&nbsp;in the city.

Also Watch |&nbsp;Hong Kong's Apple Daily pro-democracy newspaper announces closure

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kongs-apple-daily-pro-democracy-newspaper-announces-closure-393442/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

Hong Kong's most vocal pro-democracy newspaper, Apple Daily, printed its last edition on Thursday after a stormy year in which its tycoon owner and other staff were arrested under a new national security law, and its assets were frozen.

Hong Kong's most vocal pro-democracy newspaper, Apple Daily, printed its last edition on Thursday after a stormy year in which its tycoon owner and other staff were arrested under a new national security law, and its assets were frozen. The closure of the popular tabloid, which mixes pro-democracy views with celebrity gossip and investigations of those in power, marks the end of an era for media freedom in the Chinese-ruled city, critics say. "Thank you to all readers, subscribers, ad clients and Hong Kongers for 26 years of immense love and support. Here we say goodbye, take care of yourselves," the paper said in an online article. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside Apple Daily's building on Wednesday night to show support, sometimes in heavy rain, and waved smartphone lights. Journalists came out onto the balcony and responded with their own phones. The last front page carried a photograph of a member of staff waving at supporters, with the headline "Hong Kongers bid a painful farewell in the rain". A Reuters reporter present in the Apple Daily newsroom saw dozens of journalists break into applause once the final edition was sent to press, and some in tears. Reporter Alvin Chan went outside to distribute free copies to the supporters, saying: "I hope everyone can ... continue to believe in our values." The paper, whose online version will also stop updating, said it was printing a million copies of its last edition - more than 10 times its normal print run. Shortly after midnight, some newsstands waiting for delivery already had hundreds of people queueing. Apple Daily's support for democratic rights and freedoms has made it a thorn in Beijing's side since owner Jimmy Lai, a self-made tycoon who was smuggled from mainland China into Hong Kong on a fishing boat at the age of 12, started it in 1995. It shook up the region's Chinese-language media landscape and became a champion of democracy on the margins of Communist China. Its demise leaves only a handful of small online outlets on that side of politics, including Stand News and Citizen News. Also Read | John McAfee, antivirus software creator turned fugitive, dies by hanging in Spanish jail Staff unions at Citizen News and six other media groups said they would wear black on Thursday in protest at what they described as "the government’s blow against freedom of the press". Management at Citizen News and Stand News could not be reached for comment. CHALLENGE TO BEIJING Apple Daily's supporters championed it as a beacon of media freedom in the Chinese-speaking world. It repeatedly challenged Beijing's authoritarianism and was read by dissidents and a more liberal Chinese diaspora. Lai, whose assets have been frozen, has been in jail since December on charges, stemming from pro-democracy protests, of taking part in unauthorised assemblies. Some rights groups, media organisations and Western governments have criticised the action against the newspaper. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday that criticism of the raid on the newspaper amounted to attempts to "beautify" acts that endangered national security. Chinese officials have denounced the criticism as interference. Hong Kong and mainland officials have repeatedly said that media freedoms are respected but are not absolute. Apple Daily, which was published by Next Digital and employed hundreds of journalists, said in its online article that the decision to close was "based on employee safety and manpower considerations". Since being raided by police, the newspaper says it has suffered mass resignations and entire departments have had to close. Last week, the assets of companies linked to the newspaper were frozen and five executives were arrested. On Wednesday, police arrested a columnist on suspicion of conspiring to collude with foreign forces. Apple Daily and Next Digital management could not be reached to comment further. In an interview with Reuters, an adviser to Lai said on Monday that the paper would close "in a matter of days". The paper's newsroom was raided by about 200 police last August, when Lai was arrested on suspicion of colluding with foreign forces, and again last week, by 500 police, when the other executives were detained. INCREASED PRINT RUN On both occasions, the paper said it had increased its print run to 500,000 the following day from the usual 80,000, and residents of the city of 7.5 million snapped it up before dawn. The police action was the most direct attack on Hong Kong's freewheeling media since Beijing regained control of the city in 1997. Authorities in Hong Kong have said the moves against Apple Daily were not targeting the media industry or press freedom. The security law imposed on the city last year as Beijing's first major move to put Hong Kong on a more authoritarian path. Lam and other pro-Beijing officials have said it has restored stability after months of often violent pro-democracy protests. The Taiwan arm of Apple Daily said it would continue to publish online, as its finances are independent. Apple Daily has come under increasing pressure since Lai was arrested last year under the security legislation. Authorities have said dozens of Apple Daily articles may have violated the security law, the first instance of authorities taking aim at media reports under the legislation. Next Digital has been kept afloat by loans from Lai. In May, Reuters reported exclusively that Hong Kong’s security chief had sent letters to branches of HSBC and Citibank threatening up to seven years’ jail for any dealings with the billionaire's account in the city. Also Watch | Hong Kong's Apple Daily pro-democracy newspaper announces closure

Hong Kong's pro-democracy Apple Daily signs off in painful farewell

A spiked drink, a puff of dust, missing memories, and an empty bank account.&nbsp;

Hong Kong's entertainment district Wanchai has been battered by a coronavirus-driven collapse in tourism and as times get desperate, several men have seen their night out turn into a nightmare.

It took days for Stuart to recall a crucial memory. But after speaking with another victim, it suddenly came flooding back.

A woman trying to spark a conversation outside a bar, and then a man approaching with a determined look in his eye.

"I thought he was going to punch me but he just blew something in my face," he recalled. "I laughed. But that was it. No memories after that."

It was a breakthrough for Stuart who, like the other victims interviewed for this piece, asked to use a pseudonym.

He had been trying to figure out why post-match drinks with his cricket buddies in Wanchai, a popular hangout for white-collar foreign workers, had turned into one big blackout following his encounter outside the bar.

Hours were missing alongside HK$80,000 ($10,300) -- taken in six separate transactions from nearby ATMs.

"It was a joint account with my missus and we have a baby on the way," the 36-year-old Brit, who moved to Hong Kong 18 months ago, told AFP.&nbsp;

"Police said maybe I was just drunk, but why would I empty that account? It wouldn't be worth my life doing that."

Opportunistic crime

WhatsApp groups used by Wanchai bar owners and regulars have lit up in recent months with similar stories.&nbsp;

Most targets have no memory and awake to find accounts emptied by scammers who have drugged their unwitting victims -- largely by tampering with their drinks -- to keep them pliable and obtain their pin numbers.

Victims have dubbed the scam "Devil's Breath" attacks -- technically the nickname for the powerful anti-nausea drug scopolamine but in this case used more as a catch-all descriptor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/countries-relying-on-chinese-vaccines-reporting-covid-19-surge-report-393242">Also Read |&nbsp;Countries relying on Chinese vaccines reporting COVID-19 surge: Report</a>

Spiked drinks have previously posed a small risk in Hong Kong, a largely safe city, but the pandemic has exacerbated the issue.

"It's become a huge problem," one bar owner, who declined to be named, told AFP, saying multiple regulars had become victims.

"The police are up and down here all night, checking our licenses, making sure we abide by pandemic restrictions. But this seems to be something they just don't, or won't, tackle," he added.

The jump in cases tracks with a general rise in opportunistic crime as Hong Kong experiences its worst recession in decades.

Crime figures from last year showed a 26 per cent increase in robberies, a 237 per cent jump in blackmail and an 89 per cent rise in deception.&nbsp;

The latter two categories include phone and online scams, which have filled local media in recent months. Cybercrime was up 55 per cent last year.&nbsp;

In a series of pandemic-themed reports the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime detailed how the coronavirus has transformed crime trends.

Widespread lockdowns and travel restrictions, for example, have made break-ins and international drug smuggling harder but the pandemic has been a boon for human trafficking, extortion, counterfeiting and cybercrime.

Police and bar owners in Hong Kong say the vast majority of robberies are carried out by teams of sex workers, an already vulnerable group, sometimes with the help of male accomplices.&nbsp;

"We've all struggled during the pandemic and that includes the girls," another Wanchai bar owner said. "That doesn't excuse the crime, but it helps explain why."

'Psychological damage'

Three people interviewed by AFP, including Stuart, reported the robberies but said it was a struggle to get officers to treat them as victims.

"When I reported it, the officer sighed and said he already had some 90 case files on his desk," recalled James, a 41-year-old British school teacher who had HK$64,000 lifted from his account. "I was like 'Well now you have 91 cases mate'."

All three said they struggled to get crucial data from their bank HSBC to give to police. HSBC did not respond to multiple requests for comment.&nbsp;

Police said such crimes had risen during the pandemic and that the force had ramped up operations, including deploying intelligence teams and specialist anti-triad officers.

"I think you can rest assured that we are putting a lot of resources now to fight these kinds of crimes," Acting Assistant District Commander Glenn Ho Siu-tung told AFP.

He conceded there may be room for improvement on how police treat victims.

"I think we will have to spend some time educating frontline officers," Ho said, adding drinkers need to remain vigilant and not leave out any details when reporting crimes.&nbsp;

Victims, meanwhile, say the trauma of what they experienced is worse than the lost money.

"It's the psychological damage it does to you," said Stuart.&nbsp;"You just can't fathom how you could be so compliant".

A spiked drink, a puff of dust, missing memories, and an empty bank account. Hong Kong's entertainment district Wanchai has been battered by a coronavirus-driven collapse in tourism and as times get desperate, several men have seen their night out turn into a nightmare.

A spiked drink, a puff of dust, missing memories, and an empty bank account. Hong Kong's entertainment district Wanchai has been battered by a coronavirus-driven collapse in tourism and as times get desperate, several men have seen their night out turn into a nightmare. It took days for Stuart to recall a crucial memory. But after speaking with another victim, it suddenly came flooding back. A woman trying to spark a conversation outside a bar, and then a man approaching with a determined look in his eye. "I thought he was going to punch me but he just blew something in my face," he recalled. "I laughed. But that was it. No memories after that." It was a breakthrough for Stuart who, like the other victims interviewed for this piece, asked to use a pseudonym. He had been trying to figure out why post-match drinks with his cricket buddies in Wanchai, a popular hangout for white-collar foreign workers, had turned into one big blackout following his encounter outside the bar. Hours were missing alongside HK$80,000 ($10,300) -- taken in six separate transactions from nearby ATMs. "It was a joint account with my missus and we have a baby on the way," the 36-year-old Brit, who moved to Hong Kong 18 months ago, told AFP. "Police said maybe I was just drunk, but why would I empty that account? It wouldn't be worth my life doing that." Opportunistic crime WhatsApp groups used by Wanchai bar owners and regulars have lit up in recent months with similar stories. Most targets have no memory and awake to find accounts emptied by scammers who have drugged their unwitting victims -- largely by tampering with their drinks -- to keep them pliable and obtain their pin numbers. Victims have dubbed the scam "Devil's Breath" attacks -- technically the nickname for the powerful anti-nausea drug scopolamine but in this case used more as a catch-all descriptor. Also Read | Countries relying on Chinese vaccines reporting COVID-19 surge: Report Spiked drinks have previously posed a small risk in Hong Kong, a largely safe city, but the pandemic has exacerbated the issue. "It's become a huge problem," one bar owner, who declined to be named, told AFP, saying multiple regulars had become victims. "The police are up and down here all night, checking our licenses, making sure we abide by pandemic restrictions. But this seems to be something they just don't, or won't, tackle," he added. The jump in cases tracks with a general rise in opportunistic crime as Hong Kong experiences its worst recession in decades. Crime figures from last year showed a 26 per cent increase in robberies, a 237 per cent jump in blackmail and an 89 per cent rise in deception. The latter two categories include phone and online scams, which have filled local media in recent months. Cybercrime was up 55 per cent last year. In a series of pandemic-themed reports the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime detailed how the coronavirus has transformed crime trends. Widespread lockdowns and travel restrictions, for example, have made break-ins and international drug smuggling harder but the pandemic has been a boon for human trafficking, extortion, counterfeiting and cybercrime. Police and bar owners in Hong Kong say the vast majority of robberies are carried out by teams of sex workers, an already vulnerable group, sometimes with the help of male accomplices. "We've all struggled during the pandemic and that includes the girls," another Wanchai bar owner said. "That doesn't excuse the crime, but it helps explain why." 'Psychological damage' Three people interviewed by AFP, including Stuart, reported the robberies but said it was a struggle to get officers to treat them as victims. "When I reported it, the officer sighed and said he already had some 90 case files on his desk," recalled James, a 41-year-old British school teacher who had HK$64,000 lifted from his account. "I was like 'Well now you have 91 cases mate'." All three said they struggled to get crucial data from their bank HSBC to give to police. HSBC did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Police said such crimes had risen during the pandemic and that the force had ramped up operations, including deploying intelligence teams and specialist anti-triad officers. "I think you can rest assured that we are putting a lot of resources now to fight these kinds of crimes," Acting Assistant District Commander Glenn Ho Siu-tung told AFP. He conceded there may be room for improvement on how police treat victims. "I think we will have to spend some time educating frontline officers," Ho said, adding drinkers need to remain vigilant and not leave out any details when reporting crimes. Victims, meanwhile, say the trauma of what they experienced is worse than the lost money. "It's the psychological damage it does to you," said Stuart. "You just can't fathom how you could be so compliant".

COVID-19: Pandemic sparks surge in Hong Kong 'devil's breath' cash druggings

The first person charged under the national security law in Hong Kong pleaded not guilty as his trial began on Wednesday, almost a year after he was accused of driving his motorbike into officers at a rally while carrying a flag with a protest slogan. 
 
The case of Tong Ying-kit is seen as a departure from Hong Kong's common law traditions, as he was denied bail and a jury, and a test of the government's claim that the slogan 'Liberate Hong Kong! Revolution of our times' is secessionist. 
 
Tong, 24, was arrested on July 1, 2020, hours after the enactment of the national security law, which punishes what China deems as subversion, secessionism, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. 
 
Tong faces charges of terrorism and inciting secession, as well as an alternative charge of dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm, which can lead to up to seven years in prison. He pleaded not guilty to all charges. 
 
Tong has been denied bail. Hong Kong's common law has traditionally allowed defendants to seek release unless prosecutors can show lawful grounds for their detention. Under the new law, the burden is now placed on the defendant to prove they will not break the law if released on bail. 
 
On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal upheld a decision to deny Tong a trial by jury, citing a threat to the personal safety of jurors and their family members. 
 
His trial will be held by a panel of three judges instead: Esther Toh, Anthea Pang and Wilson Chan. 
 
Hong Kong's Judiciary describes trial by jury as one of the most important features of the city's legal system, a common law tradition designed to offer defendants additional protection against the possibility of authorities overreaching their power. 
 
Article 46 of the security law, drafted by Beijing, where courts are controlled by the Communist Party and conviction rates are close to 100%, states three instances in which juries can be scrapped: protecting state secrets, cases involving foreign forces and protecting jurors' safety. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The first person charged under the national security law in Hong Kong pleaded not guilty as his trial began on Wednesday, almost a year after he was accused of driving his motorbike into officers at a rally while carrying a flag with a protest slogan.

The first person charged under the national security law in Hong Kong pleaded not guilty as his trial began on Wednesday, almost a year after he was accused of driving his motorbike into officers at a rally while carrying a flag with a protest slogan. The case of Tong Ying-kit is seen as a departure from Hong Kong's common law traditions, as he was denied bail and a jury, and a test of the government's claim that the slogan 'Liberate Hong Kong! Revolution of our times' is secessionist. Tong, 24, was arrested on July 1, 2020, hours after the enactment of the national security law, which punishes what China deems as subversion, secessionism, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. Tong faces charges of terrorism and inciting secession, as well as an alternative charge of dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm, which can lead to up to seven years in prison. He pleaded not guilty to all charges. Tong has been denied bail. Hong Kong's common law has traditionally allowed defendants to seek release unless prosecutors can show lawful grounds for their detention. Under the new law, the burden is now placed on the defendant to prove they will not break the law if released on bail. On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal upheld a decision to deny Tong a trial by jury, citing a threat to the personal safety of jurors and their family members. His trial will be held by a panel of three judges instead: Esther Toh, Anthea Pang and Wilson Chan. Hong Kong's Judiciary describes trial by jury as one of the most important features of the city's legal system, a common law tradition designed to offer defendants additional protection against the possibility of authorities overreaching their power. Article 46 of the security law, drafted by Beijing, where courts are controlled by the Communist Party and conviction rates are close to 100%, states three instances in which juries can be scrapped: protecting state secrets, cases involving foreign forces and protecting jurors' safety. (With inputs from agencies)

First person charged under Hong Kong's national security law pleads not guilty

The trial of the first person charged under the national security law in Hong Kong begins on Wednesday, almost a year after he was charged with driving his motorbike into officers during a rally while carrying a flag with a protest slogan. 
 
The case of Tong Ying-kit is seen as a departure from Hong Kong`s common law traditions, as he was denied bail and a jury, and a test of the government`s claim that the slogan "Liberate Hong Kong! Revolution of our times" is secessionist. 
 
Tong, 24, was arrested on July 1, 2020, hours after the enactment of the national security law, which punishes what China deems as subversion, secessionism, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. 
 
Tong faces charges of terrorism and inciting secession, as well as an alternative charge of dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm, which can lead to up to seven years in prison. 
 
Tong has been denied bail. Hong Kong`s common law has traditionally allowed defendants to seek release unless prosecutors can show lawful grounds for their detention. Under the new law, the burden is now placed on the defendant to prove they will not break the law if released on bail. 
 
On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal upheld a decision to deny Tong a trial by jury, citing a threat to the personal safety of jurors and their family members. 
 
His trial will be held by a panel of three judges instead: Esther Toh, Anthea Pang and Wilson Chan. 
 
Hong Kong`s Judiciary describes trial by jury as one of the most important features of the city`s legal system, a common law tradition designed to offer defendants additional protection against the possibility of authorities overreaching their power. 
 
Article 46 of the security law - drafted by Beijing, where courts are controlled by the Communist Party and conviction rates are close to 100% - states three instances in which juries can be scrapped: protecting state secrets, cases involving foreign forces and protecting jurors` safety.

The trial of the first person charged under the national security law in Hong Kong begins on Wednesday, almost a year after he was charged with driving his motorbike into officers during a rally while carrying a flag with a protest slogan.

The trial of the first person charged under the national security law in Hong Kong begins on Wednesday, almost a year after he was charged with driving his motorbike into officers during a rally while carrying a flag with a protest slogan. The case of Tong Ying-kit is seen as a departure from Hong Kong`s common law traditions, as he was denied bail and a jury, and a test of the government`s claim that the slogan "Liberate Hong Kong! Revolution of our times" is secessionist. Tong, 24, was arrested on July 1, 2020, hours after the enactment of the national security law, which punishes what China deems as subversion, secessionism, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. Tong faces charges of terrorism and inciting secession, as well as an alternative charge of dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm, which can lead to up to seven years in prison. Tong has been denied bail. Hong Kong`s common law has traditionally allowed defendants to seek release unless prosecutors can show lawful grounds for their detention. Under the new law, the burden is now placed on the defendant to prove they will not break the law if released on bail. On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal upheld a decision to deny Tong a trial by jury, citing a threat to the personal safety of jurors and their family members. His trial will be held by a panel of three judges instead: Esther Toh, Anthea Pang and Wilson Chan. Hong Kong`s Judiciary describes trial by jury as one of the most important features of the city`s legal system, a common law tradition designed to offer defendants additional protection against the possibility of authorities overreaching their power. Article 46 of the security law - drafted by Beijing, where courts are controlled by the Communist Party and conviction rates are close to 100% - states three instances in which juries can be scrapped: protecting state secrets, cases involving foreign forces and protecting jurors` safety.

Trial of first person charged under Hong Kong's national security law begins

Hong Kong's pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily has announced that it has decided to cease operation immediately after midnight, making Thursday's publication the final printed edition.

Hong Kong's Apple Daily pro-democracy newspaper announces closure

Hong Kong police arrested on Wednesday a columnist for pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily on suspicion of conspiring to collude with a foreign country or foreign forces, in another hit to the besieged newspaper. 
 
The latest arrest came after police froze assets of companies linked to the newspaper and arrested five executives last week, moves that are likely to force the newspaper to shut down this week. 
 
Police have said dozens of Apple Daily pieces may have violated the security law, the first instance of authorities taking aim at media articles under the legislation. 
 
Rights groups, media organisations and Western governments have criticised the government's actions and expressed concern over freedom of the press and other rights in the Chinese-ruled city. 
 
Police, who typically do not disclose the names of those arrested, said they had arrested a 55-year-old man on the national security charges. A senior executive at Next Digital, which publishes Apple Daily, said a lead writer for editorials and a reporter were arrested, without identifying them. It was unclear why the reporter was arrested. 
 
A police representative said they had no immediate information on a second arrest. 
 
Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday that criticism of last week's raid and arrests at Apple Daily amounted to attempts to 'beautify' acts that endangered national security. 
 
Apple Daily has come under increasing pressure since its tycoon owner and staunch Beijing critic, Jimmy Lai, was arrested last year under the contentious legislation. Lai, whose assets have also been frozen under the security law, is already serving a prison sentence for taking part in unauthorised assemblies. 
 
According to an internal staff memo, the tabloid, which employs about 600 journalists, looks set to close for good by Saturday. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong police arrested on Wednesday a columnist for pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily on suspicion of conspiring to collude with a foreign country or foreign forces, in another hit to the besieged newspaper.

Hong Kong police arrested on Wednesday a columnist for pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily on suspicion of conspiring to collude with a foreign country or foreign forces, in another hit to the besieged newspaper. The latest arrest came after police froze assets of companies linked to the newspaper and arrested five executives last week, moves that are likely to force the newspaper to shut down this week. Police have said dozens of Apple Daily pieces may have violated the security law, the first instance of authorities taking aim at media articles under the legislation. Rights groups, media organisations and Western governments have criticised the government's actions and expressed concern over freedom of the press and other rights in the Chinese-ruled city. Police, who typically do not disclose the names of those arrested, said they had arrested a 55-year-old man on the national security charges. A senior executive at Next Digital, which publishes Apple Daily, said a lead writer for editorials and a reporter were arrested, without identifying them. It was unclear why the reporter was arrested. A police representative said they had no immediate information on a second arrest. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday that criticism of last week's raid and arrests at Apple Daily amounted to attempts to 'beautify' acts that endangered national security. Apple Daily has come under increasing pressure since its tycoon owner and staunch Beijing critic, Jimmy Lai, was arrested last year under the contentious legislation. Lai, whose assets have also been frozen under the security law, is already serving a prison sentence for taking part in unauthorised assemblies. According to an internal staff memo, the tabloid, which employs about 600 journalists, looks set to close for good by Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong police arrest Apple Daily columnist under security law

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