Hong Kong's media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been denied bail in a National Security case. The anti-China activist had been in custody since December 3, except for when he was released on bail for about a week late last year.

News Alert: Hong Kong tycoon Jimmy Lai denied bail in National Security case

Detained Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was in court Monday trying to win bail in the first major legal challenge to a sweeping national security law Beijing imposed on the city last year.

The landmark case puts the city's independent judiciary on a potentially precarious collision course with China's authoritarian leadership as Beijing seeks to snuff out dissent in the restless financial hub.

Lai, 73, who owns the pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily, is one of more than 100 democracy supporters arrested under the new law since it was enacted in June, and he is the highest profile figure to be incarcerated on pretrial charges.

He has been charged with "colluding with foreign forces" -- one of the new security crimes -- for allegedly calling for sanctions on Hong Kong and China in response to an ongoing crackdown on dissidents.

The security law is the most dramatic shift in Hong Kong's relationship with China since it was handed back by Britain in 1997. It criminalises a host of political views and toppled the legal firewall between the two territories.

Written in Beijing and imposed by fiat, it allows mainland security agents to operate openly in the city for the first time and grants China jurisdiction in some cases.

Another precedent-setting element of the law is no presumption of bail -- a hallmark of Hong Kong's independent common law legal system.

That is what Lai and his lawyers were seeking to challenge on Monday.

Lai was detained in December and initially granted bail after agreeing to a stringent list of requirements, including house arrest and no interviews or social media.

But he was put back behind bars days later by the Court of Final Appeal pending this week's full hearing.

Difficult balance

A panel of top judges will now&nbsp;have to balance the wording of Beijing's law against the city's common law traditions, its mini-constitution and its Bill of Rights which supposedly guarantee freedom of speech and a presumption of bail for non-violent crimes.

Legal analysts say the outcome will give an indication of whether Hong Kong's judiciary will serve -- or even can serve -- as any kind of constitutional brake against Beijing's security law.

"Today's hearing is likely to be the single most important and consequential court hearing in Hong Kong's post-1997 history," Antony Dapiran, a Hong Kong lawyer and author, told AFP.

Throughout the hearing on Monday judges challenged prosecutors on why bail should not be granted given Lai has agreed to strict house arrest measures.

Government lawyers countered that Beijing's law made clear it wanted those charged with security law crimes denied bail.

"The public simply cannot afford one act that endangers national security," prosecutor Anthony Chau told the court.&nbsp;

The judges are in a precarious position.

In Hong Kong's complex constitutional hierarchy the ultimate arbiter of the laws is Beijing's Standing Committee, which has showed an increased willingness in recent years to wade into legal arguments and make pronouncements.

China's state media have already declared Lai guilty and made clear authorities expect Hong Kong's judges to side with Beijing on national security.

Senior Chinese officials have recently backed calls to "reform" Hong Kong's judiciary, something opponents fear signals support for a more mainland-style legal system that answers to the Communist Party and where convictions are all but guaranteed.

Outside court on Monday, small groups of nationalist protesters gathered, two dressed as the coronavirus and holding banners that described Lai's newspaper as "poison".

Others heckled Lai's supporters, including 89-year-old Cardinal Joseph Zen, a veteran democracy advocate who was called a "dog" and a "traitor" by the pro-Beijing protesters as he entered court.&nbsp;

Detained Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was in court Monday trying to win bail in the first major legal challenge to a sweeping national security law Beijing imposed on the city last year.

Detained Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was in court Monday trying to win bail in the first major legal challenge to a sweeping national security law Beijing imposed on the city last year. The landmark case puts the city's independent judiciary on a potentially precarious collision course with China's authoritarian leadership as Beijing seeks to snuff out dissent in the restless financial hub. Lai, 73, who owns the pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily, is one of more than 100 democracy supporters arrested under the new law since it was enacted in June, and he is the highest profile figure to be incarcerated on pretrial charges. He has been charged with "colluding with foreign forces" -- one of the new security crimes -- for allegedly calling for sanctions on Hong Kong and China in response to an ongoing crackdown on dissidents. The security law is the most dramatic shift in Hong Kong's relationship with China since it was handed back by Britain in 1997. It criminalises a host of political views and toppled the legal firewall between the two territories. Written in Beijing and imposed by fiat, it allows mainland security agents to operate openly in the city for the first time and grants China jurisdiction in some cases. Another precedent-setting element of the law is no presumption of bail -- a hallmark of Hong Kong's independent common law legal system. That is what Lai and his lawyers were seeking to challenge on Monday. Lai was detained in December and initially granted bail after agreeing to a stringent list of requirements, including house arrest and no interviews or social media. But he was put back behind bars days later by the Court of Final Appeal pending this week's full hearing. Difficult balance A panel of top judges will now have to balance the wording of Beijing's law against the city's common law traditions, its mini-constitution and its Bill of Rights which supposedly guarantee freedom of speech and a presumption of bail for non-violent crimes. Legal analysts say the outcome will give an indication of whether Hong Kong's judiciary will serve -- or even can serve -- as any kind of constitutional brake against Beijing's security law. "Today's hearing is likely to be the single most important and consequential court hearing in Hong Kong's post-1997 history," Antony Dapiran, a Hong Kong lawyer and author, told AFP. Throughout the hearing on Monday judges challenged prosecutors on why bail should not be granted given Lai has agreed to strict house arrest measures. Government lawyers countered that Beijing's law made clear it wanted those charged with security law crimes denied bail. "The public simply cannot afford one act that endangers national security," prosecutor Anthony Chau told the court. The judges are in a precarious position. In Hong Kong's complex constitutional hierarchy the ultimate arbiter of the laws is Beijing's Standing Committee, which has showed an increased willingness in recent years to wade into legal arguments and make pronouncements. China's state media have already declared Lai guilty and made clear authorities expect Hong Kong's judges to side with Beijing on national security. Senior Chinese officials have recently backed calls to "reform" Hong Kong's judiciary, something opponents fear signals support for a more mainland-style legal system that answers to the Communist Party and where convictions are all but guaranteed. Outside court on Monday, small groups of nationalist protesters gathered, two dressed as the coronavirus and holding banners that described Lai's newspaper as "poison". Others heckled Lai's supporters, including 89-year-old Cardinal Joseph Zen, a veteran democracy advocate who was called a "dog" and a "traitor" by the pro-Beijing protesters as he entered court.

Pro-democracy tycoon in landmark challenge to Hong Kong security law

Hong Kong's court remanded tycoon Jimmy Lai, the most high profile Hong-Konger will be in custody until another bail hearing on 1st of February. Jimmy Lai is the vocal critic of Beijing. Taiwan activists voice objection against Lai's remand.

Vocal critic of Beijing, Jimmy Lai remands by Hong Kong court again

Hong Kong court remands Jimmy Lai Again

Hong Kong's pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai was ordered back to jail on Thursday as Hong Kong's highest court upheld prosecutors' appeal against his bail. Jimmy Lai is one of the most prominent Beijing critic from Hong Kong who has been booked under the new National Security Law. The law was passed by China and imposed on the financial hub in June this year.

73-year-old Jimmy Lai served 20 days in custody before being granted bail last Wednesday on stringent conditions. These included a USD 1.3 million bond and surrender if all travel documents. He was placed under house arrest and even banned from tweeting.

However, Hong Kong's Court of Final Appeal granted permission for the prosecution to appeal the bail decision. The prosecution said that a lower judge may "have erred in his construction or application" of Article 42 in the new legislation.

That article states that bail should not be granted unless the judge sees sufficient grounds to believe the defendant will not commit the alleged offence again.

"We have held that it is reasonably arguable that the Judge's decision was erroneous and that his order admitting the respondent to bail was invalid," a determination handed down by the Court of Final Appeal read. 
It also granted the prosecution's application for Lai to be held in custody pending the appeal, to be heard on February 1.

Jimmy Lai has been accused by the authorities of colluding with foreign countries by calling on overseas governments to sanction Hong Kong and China in response to an ongoing crackdown on pro-democracy activism in the city. 
More than 1,000 of his tweets and a number of media interviews he gave have been examined by the prosecution.

Lai was the first defendant charged under the security law to be granted bail, but prosecutors rushed to the top court for an urgent hearing applying for leave to appeal the decision.

China's top party mouthpiece People's Daily had criticised the bail decision for "damaging Hong Kong's rule of law".

China's authoritarian leaders guaranteed Hong Kong would maintain key freedoms and autonomy after its 1997 handover by Britain, under a model dubbed "One Country, Two Systems".

But a historic retreat from that promise is underway, in response to recent years' unrest.

(With AFP inputs)

Hong Kong's pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai was ordered back to jail on Thursday as Hong Kong's highest court upheld prosecutors' appeal against his bail. Jimmy Lai is one of the most prominent Beijing critic from Hong Kong who has been booked under the new National Security Law.

Hong Kong's pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai was ordered back to jail on Thursday as Hong Kong's highest court upheld prosecutors' appeal against his bail. Jimmy Lai is one of the most prominent Beijing critic from Hong Kong who has been booked under the new National Security Law. The law was passed by China and imposed on the financial hub in June this year. 73-year-old Jimmy Lai served 20 days in custody before being granted bail last Wednesday on stringent conditions. These included a USD 1.3 million bond and surrender if all travel documents. He was placed under house arrest and even banned from tweeting. However, Hong Kong's Court of Final Appeal granted permission for the prosecution to appeal the bail decision. The prosecution said that a lower judge may "have erred in his construction or application" of Article 42 in the new legislation. That article states that bail should not be granted unless the judge sees sufficient grounds to believe the defendant will not commit the alleged offence again. "We have held that it is reasonably arguable that the Judge's decision was erroneous and that his order admitting the respondent to bail was invalid," a determination handed down by the Court of Final Appeal read. It also granted the prosecution's application for Lai to be held in custody pending the appeal, to be heard on February 1. Jimmy Lai has been accused by the authorities of colluding with foreign countries by calling on overseas governments to sanction Hong Kong and China in response to an ongoing crackdown on pro-democracy activism in the city. More than 1,000 of his tweets and a number of media interviews he gave have been examined by the prosecution. Lai was the first defendant charged under the security law to be granted bail, but prosecutors rushed to the top court for an urgent hearing applying for leave to appeal the decision. China's top party mouthpiece People's Daily had criticised the bail decision for "damaging Hong Kong's rule of law". China's authoritarian leaders guaranteed Hong Kong would maintain key freedoms and autonomy after its 1997 handover by Britain, under a model dubbed "One Country, Two Systems". But a historic retreat from that promise is underway, in response to recent years' unrest. (With AFP inputs)

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai sent back to jail after challenge to bail

Jimmy Lai, a Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon detained under a new national security law was granted bail on Wednesday&nbsp;under strict conditions.

Lai was remanded into custody earlier this month by a dedicated national security judge sitting in a lower court.

The vocal Beijing critic is one of the highest-profile figures charged under a sweeping security law that China imposed on the financial hub over the summer in a bid to stamp out dissent.

He is accused of colluding with foreign countries by calling on overseas governments to sanction Hong Kong and China in response to its ongoing crackdown on pro-democracy activism in the city.

On Wednesday, Lai's legal team appealed to the city's High Court, where he was granted bail by a more senior judge picked to adjudicate national security cases.

He was also ordered to pay a HK$10 million bond (US$1.3 million) and imposed a number of other conditions -- he must remain at home, surrender all travel documents and hold no meetings with foreign officials or&nbsp;foreign institutions deemed to be hostile to China.

Lai was also banned from posting on social media, issuing statements or speaking to the media. The prosecution's case against him revolves around tweets and interviews he has given to the media since the national security law was imposed in late June.

(with inputs)

Jimmy Lai, a Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon detained under a new national security law was granted bail on Wednesday under strict conditions. Lai was remanded into custody earlier this month by a dedicated national security judge sitting in a lower court.

Jimmy Lai, a Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon detained under a new national security law was granted bail on Wednesday under strict conditions. Lai was remanded into custody earlier this month by a dedicated national security judge sitting in a lower court. The vocal Beijing critic is one of the highest-profile figures charged under a sweeping security law that China imposed on the financial hub over the summer in a bid to stamp out dissent. He is accused of colluding with foreign countries by calling on overseas governments to sanction Hong Kong and China in response to its ongoing crackdown on pro-democracy activism in the city. On Wednesday, Lai's legal team appealed to the city's High Court, where he was granted bail by a more senior judge picked to adjudicate national security cases. He was also ordered to pay a HK$10 million bond (US$1.3 million) and imposed a number of other conditions -- he must remain at home, surrender all travel documents and hold no meetings with foreign officials or foreign institutions deemed to be hostile to China. Lai was also banned from posting on social media, issuing statements or speaking to the media. The prosecution's case against him revolves around tweets and interviews he has given to the media since the national security law was imposed in late June. (with inputs)

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai granted bail

UK on Saturday said it was concerned as Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai was charged under national security law and produced in court on Saturday. Jimmy Lai, owner of Hong Kong's best-selling Apple Daily, is a high-profile pro-democracy figure who criticises Beijing.

"The UK remains deeply concerned about the Hong Kong authorities' focus on pursuing legal cases against pro-democracy figures like Jimmy Lai," a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson told reporters.

"We have raised this case with the authorities and will continue to lobby them at senior levels to end their targeting of pro-democracy voices."

Jimmy Lai faces charges of "collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security".&nbsp;

Lai has held UK citizenship since before Britain handed Hong Kong back to Chinese rule in 1997. However, Britain's foreign ministry has said it cannot offer him consular assistance as China does not recognise dual nationality.

Offences under the new law carry a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-media-mogul-jimmy-lai-produced-in-court-on-national-security-charge-349307">Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai produced in court on national security charge</a>

China's clampdown on Hong Kong has dramatically accelerated since it imposed the security law in June, with opposition politicians disqualified from the legislature and dozens of activists charged or investigated.

Some pro-democracy figures have fled abroad. One, Nathan Law, on Wednesday held his first meeting with a UK minister after relocating to Britain in July.

(With AFP inputs)

UK on Saturday said it was concerned as Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai was charged under national security law and produced in court on Saturday. Jimmy Lai, owner of Hong Kong's best-selling Apple Daily, is a high-profile pro-democracy figure who criticises Beijing.

UK on Saturday said it was concerned as Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai was charged under national security law and produced in court on Saturday. Jimmy Lai, owner of Hong Kong's best-selling Apple Daily, is a high-profile pro-democracy figure who criticises Beijing. "The UK remains deeply concerned about the Hong Kong authorities' focus on pursuing legal cases against pro-democracy figures like Jimmy Lai," a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson told reporters. "We have raised this case with the authorities and will continue to lobby them at senior levels to end their targeting of pro-democracy voices." Jimmy Lai faces charges of "collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security". Lai has held UK citizenship since before Britain handed Hong Kong back to Chinese rule in 1997. However, Britain's foreign ministry has said it cannot offer him consular assistance as China does not recognise dual nationality. Offences under the new law carry a maximum sentence of life in prison. Also Read | Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai produced in court on national security charge China's clampdown on Hong Kong has dramatically accelerated since it imposed the security law in June, with opposition politicians disqualified from the legislature and dozens of activists charged or investigated. Some pro-democracy figures have fled abroad. One, Nathan Law, on Wednesday held his first meeting with a UK minister after relocating to Britain in July. (With AFP inputs)

Deeply concerned, says UK after Hong Kong media tycoon produced in court

Hong Kong media tycoon and China-critic Jimmy Lai was produced in court on Saturday to face charges under Hong Kong's national security law. He has been accused of colluding with foreign countries by calling on overseas governments to sanction Hong Kong and China in response to the crackdown on pro-democracy activism in the city. If Jimmy Lai is found guilty, he may spend his life in jail.

Jimmy Lai is the most high-profile person who has been charged under the new law.

The prosecutor told the court that Lai broke the security law between July 1 and December 1 by requesting that a foreign country or institution, organisation or individual "impose sanctions or blockade, or engage in other hostile activities" against Hong Kong and China.

Lai was dressed in a suit and appeared calm. He said he acknowledged the charges.

Chief Magistrate Victor So, one of the six magistrates hand-picked by the city's pro-Beijing leader Carrie Lam to handle national security cases, said the prosecution needed time to further investigate.

This included examining more than a thousand messages from Lai's Twitter accounts, a number of media interviews the tycoon gave, and a number of overseas visits in relation to calls for US sanctions against Hong Kong and China.

After the hearing, Lai's supporters shouted words of encouragement, which he returned with a heart-shape hand gesture.

Lai's popular Apple Daily newspaper, citing sources, said the bulk of the police case revolved around social media posts and interviews Lai gave to Western media.

It reported that the police allegations said Lai had followed 53 people on Twitter including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen and a member of Britain's Conservative Party, Luke de Pulford, and that he had 120,000 followers including Tiananmen student protest leaders Wang Dan and Wuer Kai Xi.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

Hong Kong media tycoon and China-critic Jimmy Lai was produced in court on Saturday to face charges under Hong Kong's national security law. He has been accused of colluding with foreign countries by calling on overseas governments to sanction Hong Kong and China in response to the crackdown on pro-democracy activism in the city.

Hong Kong media tycoon and China-critic Jimmy Lai was produced in court on Saturday to face charges under Hong Kong's national security law. He has been accused of colluding with foreign countries by calling on overseas governments to sanction Hong Kong and China in response to the crackdown on pro-democracy activism in the city. If Jimmy Lai is found guilty, he may spend his life in jail. Jimmy Lai is the most high-profile person who has been charged under the new law. The prosecutor told the court that Lai broke the security law between July 1 and December 1 by requesting that a foreign country or institution, organisation or individual "impose sanctions or blockade, or engage in other hostile activities" against Hong Kong and China. Lai was dressed in a suit and appeared calm. He said he acknowledged the charges. Chief Magistrate Victor So, one of the six magistrates hand-picked by the city's pro-Beijing leader Carrie Lam to handle national security cases, said the prosecution needed time to further investigate. This included examining more than a thousand messages from Lai's Twitter accounts, a number of media interviews the tycoon gave, and a number of overseas visits in relation to calls for US sanctions against Hong Kong and China. After the hearing, Lai's supporters shouted words of encouragement, which he returned with a heart-shape hand gesture. Lai's popular Apple Daily newspaper, citing sources, said the bulk of the police case revolved around social media posts and interviews Lai gave to Western media. It reported that the police allegations said Lai had followed 53 people on Twitter including US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen and a member of Britain's Conservative Party, Luke de Pulford, and that he had 120,000 followers including Tiananmen student protest leaders Wang Dan and Wuer Kai Xi. (With AFP inputs)

Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai produced in court on national security charge

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was charged under new national security law on Friday. Jimmy Lai has a pro-democracy leaning and is a strong critic of Beijing. Lai has been accused of colluding with foreign forces. Jimmy Lai was detained last week.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai charged under new security law

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was charged under new national security law on Friday. Jimmy Lai has a pro-democracy leaning and is a strong critic of Beijing. Lai has been accused of colluding with foreign forces. Jimmy Lai was detained last week.

"After further investigation by the police's National Security Department, a 73-year old man is charged with one count of 'collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security," police said in a statement.

Hong Kong authorities have intensified a crackdown on key opposition figures since Beijing circumvented the territory's legislature and imposed sweeping national security legislation on the global financial centre on June 30.

Critics of the national security law say that the law crushes freedoms enshrined under the "one country, two systems" formula, while supporters say it will bring stability after prolonged anti-China, pro-democracy protests last year.

Joshua Wong, a prominent activist was jailed for more than 13 months last week for his role in an anti-government rally in 2019.

(With agency inputs)

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was charged under new national security law on Friday. Jimmy Lai has a pro-democracy leaning and is a strong critic of Beijing. Lai has been accused of colluding with foreign forces.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was charged under new national security law on Friday. Jimmy Lai has a pro-democracy leaning and is a strong critic of Beijing. Lai has been accused of colluding with foreign forces. Jimmy Lai was detained last week. "After further investigation by the police's National Security Department, a 73-year old man is charged with one count of 'collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security," police said in a statement. Hong Kong authorities have intensified a crackdown on key opposition figures since Beijing circumvented the territory's legislature and imposed sweeping national security legislation on the global financial centre on June 30. Critics of the national security law say that the law crushes freedoms enshrined under the "one country, two systems" formula, while supporters say it will bring stability after prolonged anti-China, pro-democracy protests last year. Joshua Wong, a prominent activist was jailed for more than 13 months last week for his role in an anti-government rally in 2019. (With agency inputs)

Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai charged under national security law

He is scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 12, and could face a maximum punishment of life imprisonment.

The&nbsp;United Kingdom said on Friday that it is&nbsp;'deeply concerned' after Hong Kong's media mogul Jimmy Lai charged by China under the city's national security law on suspicion of colluding with foreign forces and endangering national security.

"The UK remains deeply concerned about the Hong Kong authorities' focus on pursuing legal cases against pro-democracy figures like Jimmy Lai," a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson told reporters.

"We have raised this case with the authorities and will continue to lobby them at senior levels to end their targeting of pro-democracy voices."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-media-mogul-jimmy-lai-charged-under-national-security-law-348984">Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai charged under national security law</a>

Lai, an ardent critic of Beijing, is&nbsp;the highest profile person charged under the sweeping new law imposed on the Chinese-ruled city in June.

The law has been condemned by the West and human rights groups as a tool to crush dissent. Authorities in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;and Beijing say it is vital to plug gaping holes in national security defenses exposed by months of sometimes violent anti-government and anti-China protests that rocked the city over the last year.

Britain, which ruled&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;for over 150 years until it handed it back to China in 1997, says a new security law imposed on the territory by Beijing just before midnight on June 30 was a breach of the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration that paved the way for the handover.

London has also objected to new rules imposed by mainland China to disqualify elected legislators in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, and to what it describes as retribution by the territory's executive against political opposition and silencing of dissent.

"This has been, and continues to be, the most concerning period in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong’s post-handover history," Foreign Secretary Dominic&nbsp;Raab wrote in his foreword to the latest in a regular series of six-monthly reports on&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong.

The United Kingdom said on Friday that it is 'deeply concerned' after Hong Kong's media mogul Jimmy Lai charged by China under the city's national security law on suspicion of colluding with foreign forces and endangering national security.

The United Kingdom said on Friday that it is 'deeply concerned' after Hong Kong's media mogul Jimmy Lai charged by China under the city's national security law on suspicion of colluding with foreign forces and endangering national security. "The UK remains deeply concerned about the Hong Kong authorities' focus on pursuing legal cases against pro-democracy figures like Jimmy Lai," a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson told reporters. "We have raised this case with the authorities and will continue to lobby them at senior levels to end their targeting of pro-democracy voices." Also read: Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai charged under national security law Lai, an ardent critic of Beijing, is the highest profile person charged under the sweeping new law imposed on the Chinese-ruled city in June. The law has been condemned by the West and human rights groups as a tool to crush dissent. Authorities in Hong Kong and Beijing say it is vital to plug gaping holes in national security defenses exposed by months of sometimes violent anti-government and anti-China protests that rocked the city over the last year. Britain, which ruled Hong Kong for over 150 years until it handed it back to China in 1997, says a new security law imposed on the territory by Beijing just before midnight on June 30 was a breach of the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration that paved the way for the handover. London has also objected to new rules imposed by mainland China to disqualify elected legislators in Hong Kong, and to what it describes as retribution by the territory's executive against political opposition and silencing of dissent. "This has been, and continues to be, the most concerning period in Hong Kong’s post-handover history," Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab wrote in his foreword to the latest in a regular series of six-monthly reports on Hong Kong.

UK says 'deeply concerned' after Hong Kong's Jimmy Lai charged

In a string of prosecution brought against high profile Beijing critics and democracy campaigners, Hong Kong's pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been denied bail on fraud charge.

WION Dispatch: Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai denied bail

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was remanded into custody on Thursday after being charged with fraud, the latest in a string of prosecutions brought against high-profile Beijing critics and democracy campaigners.&nbsp;

Lai, 73, is the owner of Hong Kong's best-selling Apple Daily, a popular tabloid that is unashamedly pro-democracy and fiercely critical of authorities.

Lai and two of the firm's executives -- Royston Chow and Wong Wai-keung -- face fraud charges that court documents say are related to the paper's offices allegedly being used for purposes not permitted by the building's lease.

Police raided Apple Daily's headquarters in August and arrested a string of senior company figures, including Lai, on suspicion of "collusion with foreign forces" under a vaguely worded new national security law that Beijing imposed on the city.

None has so far been charged with any national security breaches.&nbsp;

But Victor So, the magistrate overseeing Thursday's hearing, is from a group of judges selected by Hong Kong's chief executive to try such cases.

So denied Lai bail but granted it to Wong and Chow, setting the next court date for April.

The decision means Lai faces months behind bars as police continue their investigation.&nbsp;

A clampdown has gathered pace in Hong Kong since China imposed its sweeping security law in June, with opposition politicians disqualified and dozens of activists charged or investigated.

On Wednesday, three prominent young democracy campaigners -- including Joshua Wong -- were jailed for taking part in last year's democracy protests.&nbsp;

Lai is also being prosecuted for his alleged part in those rallies in a separate case.

The crackdown has provoked outrage in the West and fear for millions who last year took to the streets to protest communist China's tightening grip on the semi-autonomous city.

Beijing says stability and order has been restored and has dismissed the huge crowds that protested as a foreign plot to destabilise China.

Critics say Beijing has shredded the freedoms and autonomy Hong Kong was promised ahead of its handover by Britain.

Lai has long said he fears authorities want to shutter his newspaper, one of the few local outlets still willing to vocally take on Beijing.

In Chinese state media, he is routinely cast as a traitor and "black hand".

"I'm prepared for prison," Lai told AFP in an interview two weeks before the security law was imposed.&nbsp;

"I'm a troublemaker. I came here with nothing, the freedom of this place has given me everything. Maybe it's time I paid back for that freedom by fighting for it," he added.&nbsp;

Prosecutors have tried bringing cases against him in the past.&nbsp;

He was acquitted in September of intimidating a reporter from a rival pro-government newspaper.

The corruption watchdog also dropped a case against him over political donations to pro-democracy supporters after four years of investigations.

Authorities deny targeting Apple Daily or Lai and say police are simply enforcing breaches of the law.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was remanded into custody on Thursday after being charged with fraud, the latest in a string of prosecutions brought against high-profile Beijing critics and democracy campaigners.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was remanded into custody on Thursday after being charged with fraud, the latest in a string of prosecutions brought against high-profile Beijing critics and democracy campaigners. Lai, 73, is the owner of Hong Kong's best-selling Apple Daily, a popular tabloid that is unashamedly pro-democracy and fiercely critical of authorities. Lai and two of the firm's executives -- Royston Chow and Wong Wai-keung -- face fraud charges that court documents say are related to the paper's offices allegedly being used for purposes not permitted by the building's lease. Police raided Apple Daily's headquarters in August and arrested a string of senior company figures, including Lai, on suspicion of "collusion with foreign forces" under a vaguely worded new national security law that Beijing imposed on the city. None has so far been charged with any national security breaches. But Victor So, the magistrate overseeing Thursday's hearing, is from a group of judges selected by Hong Kong's chief executive to try such cases. So denied Lai bail but granted it to Wong and Chow, setting the next court date for April. The decision means Lai faces months behind bars as police continue their investigation. A clampdown has gathered pace in Hong Kong since China imposed its sweeping security law in June, with opposition politicians disqualified and dozens of activists charged or investigated. On Wednesday, three prominent young democracy campaigners -- including Joshua Wong -- were jailed for taking part in last year's democracy protests. Lai is also being prosecuted for his alleged part in those rallies in a separate case. The crackdown has provoked outrage in the West and fear for millions who last year took to the streets to protest communist China's tightening grip on the semi-autonomous city. Beijing says stability and order has been restored and has dismissed the huge crowds that protested as a foreign plot to destabilise China. Critics say Beijing has shredded the freedoms and autonomy Hong Kong was promised ahead of its handover by Britain. Lai has long said he fears authorities want to shutter his newspaper, one of the few local outlets still willing to vocally take on Beijing. In Chinese state media, he is routinely cast as a traitor and "black hand". "I'm prepared for prison," Lai told AFP in an interview two weeks before the security law was imposed. "I'm a troublemaker. I came here with nothing, the freedom of this place has given me everything. Maybe it's time I paid back for that freedom by fighting for it," he added. Prosecutors have tried bringing cases against him in the past. He was acquitted in September of intimidating a reporter from a rival pro-government newspaper. The corruption watchdog also dropped a case against him over political donations to pro-democracy supporters after four years of investigations. Authorities deny targeting Apple Daily or Lai and say police are simply enforcing breaches of the law.

Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon remanded into custody on fraud charge

A top aide to Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai has admitted he helped fund a contentious report alleging links between Joe Biden's son and China. He, however, insisted his boss did not know about it.

Senior aide Mark Simon on Sunday stepped down from his post at Apple Daily after the admission.

The 64-page document by a fictitious author, which was circulated online and seized on by US President Donald Trump's supporters, alleged business connections between Hunter Biden and China.

Investigations in recent days, however, raised questions about its veracity and how it was compiled.

In a series of tweets over the weekend Lai said senior aide Mark Simon, a vocal critic of Biden, had "worked with the project". "Mark used my private company's money to reimburse for the research he requested. It's only US$10,000 so he didn't have to have my approval," Lai wrote.

"I know it is hard for anyone to believe that I didn't know about it and my integrity is damaged," he added.

Lai was one of the first people to be arrested under a new national security law that Beijing imposed on Hong Kong in June following last year's pro-democracy protests.

Lai has long been a thorn in the side of Beijing and has spoken favourably of Trump's willingness to confront China. His Apple Daily newspapers and Next Magazine are unashamedly pro-democracy and he is routinely villified by China's state media.&nbsp;

According to AFP, Simon Sunday said he acted in his own capacity in paying for some of the research that ended up in the dossier.&nbsp;

"Apple Daily had nothing to do with the report and certainly Mr. Lai has nothing to do with it," he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"All were completely unaware of me helping out with expenses of research."

Earlier on Friday, NBC published an investigation saying the 64-page dossier had "questionable authorship and anonymous sourcing". The investigation found the listed author, a supposed Swiss security analyst called Martin Aspen, was a fabricated identity and that his picture had been created using software.

According to NBC, blogger and academic Christopher Balding, a former associate professor at Fulbright University Vietnam, said he had contributed to the report and admitted Aspen did not exist. He said the report was was "commissioned by Apple Daily", Lai's staunchly pro-democracy and anti-Beijing newspaper in Hong Kong and Taiwan.

The paper denied that characterisation, as did Simon.&nbsp;

"I nor anyone at Apple did anything in terms of research or writing, just no role whatsoever.&nbsp;&nbsp;All arms length," he said.&nbsp;

"$10k is well within my discretion, but putting Apple people and Jimmy in the firing line was wrong. I was far too casual with using Apple Daily name, I abused the trust I have been given," he added, explaining his decision to resign.

Apple Daily's newsroom was raided by more than 200 police officers and authorities accuse Lai of "colluding with foreign forces" and money laundering.

(with inputs)

A top aide to Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai has admitted he helped fund a contentious report alleging links between Joe Biden's son and China. He, however, insisted his boss did not know about it.

A top aide to Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai has admitted he helped fund a contentious report alleging links between Joe Biden's son and China. He, however, insisted his boss did not know about it. Senior aide Mark Simon on Sunday stepped down from his post at Apple Daily after the admission. The 64-page document by a fictitious author, which was circulated online and seized on by US President Donald Trump's supporters, alleged business connections between Hunter Biden and China. Investigations in recent days, however, raised questions about its veracity and how it was compiled. In a series of tweets over the weekend Lai said senior aide Mark Simon, a vocal critic of Biden, had "worked with the project". "Mark used my private company's money to reimburse for the research he requested. It's only US$10,000 so he didn't have to have my approval," Lai wrote. "I know it is hard for anyone to believe that I didn't know about it and my integrity is damaged," he added. Lai was one of the first people to be arrested under a new national security law that Beijing imposed on Hong Kong in June following last year's pro-democracy protests. Lai has long been a thorn in the side of Beijing and has spoken favourably of Trump's willingness to confront China. His Apple Daily newspapers and Next Magazine are unashamedly pro-democracy and he is routinely villified by China's state media. According to AFP, Simon Sunday said he acted in his own capacity in paying for some of the research that ended up in the dossier. "Apple Daily had nothing to do with the report and certainly Mr. Lai has nothing to do with it," he said. "All were completely unaware of me helping out with expenses of research." Earlier on Friday, NBC published an investigation saying the 64-page dossier had "questionable authorship and anonymous sourcing". The investigation found the listed author, a supposed Swiss security analyst called Martin Aspen, was a fabricated identity and that his picture had been created using software. According to NBC, blogger and academic Christopher Balding, a former associate professor at Fulbright University Vietnam, said he had contributed to the report and admitted Aspen did not exist. He said the report was was "commissioned by Apple Daily", Lai's staunchly pro-democracy and anti-Beijing newspaper in Hong Kong and Taiwan. The paper denied that characterisation, as did Simon. "I nor anyone at Apple did anything in terms of research or writing, just no role whatsoever. All arms length," he said. "$10k is well within my discretion, but putting Apple people and Jimmy in the firing line was wrong. I was far too casual with using Apple Daily name, I abused the trust I have been given," he added, explaining his decision to resign. Apple Daily's newsroom was raided by more than 200 police officers and authorities accuse Lai of "colluding with foreign forces" and money laundering. (with inputs)

Hong Kong media tycoon Lai unaware of Biden dossier, aide says

Hong Kong pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai, 71, was found not guilty of criminal intimidation by a court on Thursday. Lai had denied charge criminal intimidation over an incident involving Tiananmen massacre vigil in 2017.

Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai cleared in intimidation trial

President Donald Trump on Wednesday called arrested Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai a "brave man" and expressed his support for the pro-democracy advocate who was briefly detained last week.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-arrest-of-hong-kongs-media-tycoon-jimmy-lai-back-fired-319812">How arrest of Hong Kong's media tycoon Jimmy Lai back fired</a>

"I sent him best wishes," Trump told reporters at the White House.

Lai was among 10 people detained on August 10 under a sweeping security law imposed by Beijing, as around 200 police officers searched the newsroom of his Apple Daily tabloid, which is unapologetically critical of China.

The 71-year-old was cheered by staff and handed a bouquet as he returned to the newsroom two days later following a late-night release on bail after 40 hours in custody.

During the White House briefing, Trump called Lai "certainly a brave man."

Beijing's crackdown has provoked outrage in the West and deepened fears for millions who last year took to Hong Kong's streets to protest China's tightening grip on the city.

China has declared it will have jurisdiction over especially serious national security crimes, toppling the legal firewall between the mainland's Communist Party-controlled courts and Hong Kong's independent judiciary.

US authorities earlier in the day formally notified Hong Kong that the United States has withdrawn from three bilateral deals with the semi-autonomous Chinese city on extradition and taxation.

The announcement follows Trump's decision to revoke Hong Kong's preferential trade status.

In July, the president signed an executive order stipulating that the financial hub lacked the autonomy needed to justify special treatment as compared with China.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday called arrested Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai a "brave man" and expressed his support for the pro-democracy advocate who was briefly detained last week.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday called arrested Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai a "brave man" and expressed his support for the pro-democracy advocate who was briefly detained last week. Also read: How arrest of Hong Kong's media tycoon Jimmy Lai back fired "I sent him best wishes," Trump told reporters at the White House. Lai was among 10 people detained on August 10 under a sweeping security law imposed by Beijing, as around 200 police officers searched the newsroom of his Apple Daily tabloid, which is unapologetically critical of China. The 71-year-old was cheered by staff and handed a bouquet as he returned to the newsroom two days later following a late-night release on bail after 40 hours in custody. During the White House briefing, Trump called Lai "certainly a brave man." Beijing's crackdown has provoked outrage in the West and deepened fears for millions who last year took to Hong Kong's streets to protest China's tightening grip on the city. China has declared it will have jurisdiction over especially serious national security crimes, toppling the legal firewall between the mainland's Communist Party-controlled courts and Hong Kong's independent judiciary. US authorities earlier in the day formally notified Hong Kong that the United States has withdrawn from three bilateral deals with the semi-autonomous Chinese city on extradition and taxation. The announcement follows Trump's decision to revoke Hong Kong's preferential trade status. In July, the president signed an executive order stipulating that the financial hub lacked the autonomy needed to justify special treatment as compared with China.

Trump calls arrested Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai 'brave man'

Hong kong Media Tycoon Jimmy Lai is to be in court today, facing charges related to a three-year-old offense. Jimmy has been accused of threatening to injure a man during the 2017 Tiananmen Square vigil at Victoria Park.

Jimmy Lai in court: Accused of threatening to attack a man in 2017

Pro-democracy&nbsp;media tycoon Jimmy Lai denies violating national security law&nbsp;calling accusations an ''excuse to clamp down''&nbsp;by Beijing.

Three days after he was released from police custody, Lai said in an interview ''I have never given one cent or dime to the movement and nobody has given us any money except moral support''.

Lai, a staunch supporter of the city's democracy movement, was arrested on Monday on suspicion of collusion with foreign forces as police raided the offices of his Apple Daily tabloid.

He was released on bail early on Wednesday, and greeted by a throng of supporters chanting "fight till the end".

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump on Thursday criticized the arrest of Hong Kong media tycoon saying "I think it's a terrible thing".

Since&nbsp;Lai's arrest people have been queuing up early in the morning to buy his Apple Daily, and many have also bought shares in Next Digital,&nbsp;Lai's media company that publishes his newspaper, sparking a rally of more than 2,000 per cent&nbsp;at its peak.

The 71-year-old,&nbsp;who China sees as a "traitor", was arrested under a new security law imposed by Beijing on June 30 in response to a year of pro-democracy unrest in the former British colony, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula aimed at preserving its autonomy.

Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement, fuelled by fears Beijing has been eroding city freedoms, has enjoyed and sustained broad support in the city.

Critics say the law brings semi-autonomous Hong Kong closer to mainland China's authoritarianism, while its supporters say it will bring stability to the city and safeguard its prosperity.

Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai denies violating national security law calling accusations an ''excuse to clamp down'' by Beijing. Three days after he was released from police custody, Lai said in an interview ''I have never given one cent or dime to the movement and nobody has given us any money except moral support''.

Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai denies violating national security law calling accusations an ''excuse to clamp down'' by Beijing. Three days after he was released from police custody, Lai said in an interview ''I have never given one cent or dime to the movement and nobody has given us any money except moral support''. Lai, a staunch supporter of the city's democracy movement, was arrested on Monday on suspicion of collusion with foreign forces as police raided the offices of his Apple Daily tabloid. He was released on bail early on Wednesday, and greeted by a throng of supporters chanting "fight till the end". US President Donald Trump on Thursday criticized the arrest of Hong Kong media tycoon saying "I think it's a terrible thing". Since Lai's arrest people have been queuing up early in the morning to buy his Apple Daily, and many have also bought shares in Next Digital, Lai's media company that publishes his newspaper, sparking a rally of more than 2,000 per cent at its peak. The 71-year-old, who China sees as a "traitor", was arrested under a new security law imposed by Beijing on June 30 in response to a year of pro-democracy unrest in the former British colony, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula aimed at preserving its autonomy. Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement, fuelled by fears Beijing has been eroding city freedoms, has enjoyed and sustained broad support in the city. Critics say the law brings semi-autonomous Hong Kong closer to mainland China's authoritarianism, while its supporters say it will bring stability to the city and safeguard its prosperity.

Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai denies violating national security law

Hong Kong's media tycoon Jimmy Lai has received a hero's welcome upon his return to his newsroom in Apple Daily. Watch report.

Hong Kong's Jimmy Lai receives a hero's welcome upon return to his newsroom

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai appeared on Twitter live and thanked his supporters and said their action showed the police raid was a “violation of Hong Kong people’s belief” in wide-ranging freedoms, which he likened to oxygen.

China tightens grip on Hong Kong: Jimmy Lai warns young protesters

Jimmy Lai: Hong Kong needs patient, not radical democracy campaign

Hong Kong media tycoon&nbsp;Jimmy&nbsp;Lai&nbsp;said on Thursday he was overwhelmed by the support he got after becoming the most high-profile person to be arrested under a new national security law and urged patience in a "long-term fight" for democracy.

Lai, a staunch supporter of the city's democracy movement, was arrested on Monday on suspicion of collusion with foreign forces as police raided the offices of his Apple Daily tabloid.

He was released on bail early on Wednesday, and greeted by a throng of supporters chanting "fight till the end".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-pro-democracy-media-tycoon-jimmy-lai-released-on-bail-319811">Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai released on bail</a>

In a #LiveChatWithJimmy&nbsp;video appearance on Twitter,&nbsp;Lai&nbsp;thanked his supporters and said their action showed the police raid was a "violation of Hong Kong people's belief" in wide-ranging freedoms, which he likened to oxygen.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The show must go on! <a href="https://t.co/oU4HwIx8lQ">https://t.co/oU4HwIx8lQ</a>
— Jimmy Lai (@JimmyLaiApple) <a href="https://twitter.com/JimmyLaiApple/status/1293724699701248000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also said that China fails to understand ''how precious Hong Kong is because of its freedom institution of the rule of law, freedom of speech, freedom of religion and private property and all that the freedom of assembly, all that us, all that the British government left as a legacy for us, is a great protection of this city's freedom and also the foundation of international financial center.''

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-democracy-media-tycoon-jimmy-lais-company-skyrocketed-788-since-his-arrest-319687">Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai's company skyrocketed 788% since his arrest</a>

Lai, who China sees as a "traitor", was arrested under a new security law imposed by Beijing on June 30 in response to a year of pro-democracy unrest in the former British colony, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula aimed at preserving its autonomy.

Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement, fuelled by fears Beijing has been eroding city freedoms, has enjoyed and sustained broad support in the city. Lai&nbsp;said pro-democracy activists had to play a long game.

"We cannot be radical, we cannot confront them face-to-face because we're just like an egg and they are a high wall. We have to flexible, and innovative and patient, but persist,"&nbsp;he said.

The law punishes whatever China considers subversion, secession, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison.

Critics say the law brings semi-autonomous Hong Kong closer to mainland China's authoritarianism, while its supporters say it will bring stability to the city and safeguard its prosperity.

Since&nbsp;Lai's arrest people have been queuing up early in the morning to buy his Apple Daily, and many have also bought shares in Next Digital,&nbsp;Lai's media company that publishes his newspaper, sparking a rally of more than 2,000% at its peak.

Lai&nbsp;called the rise in share price an "ephemeral phenomenon" and urged people "not to touch it".

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai said on Thursday he was overwhelmed by the support he got after becoming the most high-profile person to be arrested under a new national security law and urged patience in a "long-term fight" for democracy.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai said on Thursday he was overwhelmed by the support he got after becoming the most high-profile person to be arrested under a new national security law and urged patience in a "long-term fight" for democracy. Lai, a staunch supporter of the city's democracy movement, was arrested on Monday on suspicion of collusion with foreign forces as police raided the offices of his Apple Daily tabloid. He was released on bail early on Wednesday, and greeted by a throng of supporters chanting "fight till the end". Also read: Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai released on bail In a #LiveChatWithJimmy video appearance on Twitter, Lai thanked his supporters and said their action showed the police raid was a "violation of Hong Kong people's belief" in wide-ranging freedoms, which he likened to oxygen. The show must go on! https://t.co/oU4HwIx8lQ — Jimmy Lai (@JimmyLaiApple) August 13, 2020 × He also said that China fails to understand ''how precious Hong Kong is because of its freedom institution of the rule of law, freedom of speech, freedom of religion and private property and all that the freedom of assembly, all that us, all that the British government left as a legacy for us, is a great protection of this city's freedom and also the foundation of international financial center.'' Also read: Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai's company skyrocketed 788% since his arrest Lai, who China sees as a "traitor", was arrested under a new security law imposed by Beijing on June 30 in response to a year of pro-democracy unrest in the former British colony, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula aimed at preserving its autonomy. Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement, fuelled by fears Beijing has been eroding city freedoms, has enjoyed and sustained broad support in the city. Lai said pro-democracy activists had to play a long game. "We cannot be radical, we cannot confront them face-to-face because we're just like an egg and they are a high wall. We have to flexible, and innovative and patient, but persist," he said. The law punishes whatever China considers subversion, secession, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. Critics say the law brings semi-autonomous Hong Kong closer to mainland China's authoritarianism, while its supporters say it will bring stability to the city and safeguard its prosperity. Since Lai's arrest people have been queuing up early in the morning to buy his Apple Daily, and many have also bought shares in Next Digital, Lai's media company that publishes his newspaper, sparking a rally of more than 2,000% at its peak. Lai called the rise in share price an "ephemeral phenomenon" and urged people "not to touch it".

Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai says Hong Kong needs patient campaign

Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai told his staff at Apple Daily to “fight on” early on Wednesday, a day after he was released on bail.&nbsp;Lai was arrested under the new national security law imposed by Beijing in Hong Kong.

"Fight on! Let's fight on," Lai said in a Facebook live broadcast.&nbsp;"We have the support of the Hong Kong people. We can't let them down”, he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/hong-kong-pro-democracy-media-tycoon-jimmy-lai-released-on-bail-319811" hreflang="en">Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai released on bail</a>

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was released from police custody on Tuesday, a day after being detained under a sweeping security law imposed by China.&nbsp;When Lai left a police station he was swarmed by dozens of cheering supporters, some of whom waved copies of his Apple Daily in a show of support.

Clampdown on freedom in HK

A clampdown has gathered pace in Hong Kong since China imposed a sweeping security law in June, with opposition politicians disqualified and activists arrested for social media posts.

The moves have provoked outrage in the West and fear for millions who last year took to the streets to protest communist China's tightening grip on the semi-autonomous city.

Mainland-born Lai, who was smuggled into Hong Kong on a fishing boat when he was a penniless 12-year-old, is one of the most prominent democracy activists in the city and an ardent critic of Communist Party rule in Beijing.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/pro-democracy-activists-agnes-chow-and-jimmy-lai-released-on-bail-hk-police-confiscates-chows-passport-319874/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

His arrest came&nbsp;amid a crackdown on the pro-democracy opposition in Hong Kong that has drawn international criticism and raised fears for freedoms promised by Beijing under a "one country, two systems" formula.

'Pretext to silence opposition'

The sweeping security law imposed on June 30 punishes anything China considers secession, subversion, terrorism or collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison.

The city's Beijing-backed government and Chinese authorities say the law is necessary to restore order after months of at times violent anti-government protests last year, sparked by fears China was slowly eroding those freedoms.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/how-arrest-of-hong-kongs-media-tycoon-jimmy-lai-back-fired-319812" hreflang="en">How arrest of Hong Kong's media tycoon Jimmy Lai back fired</a>

Britain said Lai's arrest was further evidence the security law was a "pretext to silence opposition", to which China's embassy replied by urging London to stop "using freedom of the press as an excuse to discredit" the law.

Hong Kong has since become another source of contention between the United States and China, whose relations were already at their most strained in years over issues including trade, the coronavirus, China's treatment of its Uighur Muslim minority and its claims in the South China Sea.

Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai told his staff at Apple Daily to “fight on” early on Wednesday, a day after he was released on bail. Lai was arrested under the new national security law imposed by Beijing in Hong Kong.

Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai told his staff at Apple Daily to “fight on” early on Wednesday, a day after he was released on bail. Lai was arrested under the new national security law imposed by Beijing in Hong Kong. "Fight on! Let's fight on," Lai said in a Facebook live broadcast. "We have the support of the Hong Kong people. We can't let them down”, he said. Also read: Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai released on bail Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was released from police custody on Tuesday, a day after being detained under a sweeping security law imposed by China. When Lai left a police station he was swarmed by dozens of cheering supporters, some of whom waved copies of his Apple Daily in a show of support. Clampdown on freedom in HK A clampdown has gathered pace in Hong Kong since China imposed a sweeping security law in June, with opposition politicians disqualified and activists arrested for social media posts. The moves have provoked outrage in the West and fear for millions who last year took to the streets to protest communist China's tightening grip on the semi-autonomous city. Mainland-born Lai, who was smuggled into Hong Kong on a fishing boat when he was a penniless 12-year-old, is one of the most prominent democracy activists in the city and an ardent critic of Communist Party rule in Beijing. His arrest came amid a crackdown on the pro-democracy opposition in Hong Kong that has drawn international criticism and raised fears for freedoms promised by Beijing under a "one country, two systems" formula. 'Pretext to silence opposition' The sweeping security law imposed on June 30 punishes anything China considers secession, subversion, terrorism or collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. The city's Beijing-backed government and Chinese authorities say the law is necessary to restore order after months of at times violent anti-government protests last year, sparked by fears China was slowly eroding those freedoms. Also read: How arrest of Hong Kong's media tycoon Jimmy Lai back fired Britain said Lai's arrest was further evidence the security law was a "pretext to silence opposition", to which China's embassy replied by urging London to stop "using freedom of the press as an excuse to discredit" the law. Hong Kong has since become another source of contention between the United States and China, whose relations were already at their most strained in years over issues including trade, the coronavirus, China's treatment of its Uighur Muslim minority and its claims in the South China Sea.

Jimmy Lai tells staff to 'fight on' for 'people of Hong Kong' after being released from police custody

Apple Daily owner Jimmy Lai has been released on bail. Lai's arrest has led to campaigns to support free speech in Hong Kong. WION is extending its support to Hong Kong's pro-democracy campaign. Join the campaign.

Gravitas: WION stands with Apple Daily

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been released from police custody, over a day after being detained under a sweeping security law imposed by China.

Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai released on bail

In Hong Kong, pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai and Agnis Chow have been released on bail after been rounded up this week under the new National Security Law. Watch report.

HK activist Jimmy Lai released on bail after 2 days of arrest

In Hong Kong, pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai and Agnes Chow have been released on bail after been rounded up this week under the new National Security Law. Watch report.

Pro-Democracy activists Agnes Chow and Jimmy Lai released on bail: HK police confiscates Chow's passport

Journalists who have faced China's wrath for defending liberties

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been released from police custody, over a day after being detained under a sweeping security law imposed by China.

When Lai left a police station he was swarmed by dozens of cheering supporters, some of whom waved copies of his Apple Daily in a show of support.

A clampdown has gathered pace in Hong Kong since China imposed a sweeping security law in June, with opposition politicians disqualified and activists arrested for social media posts.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-democracy-media-tycoon-jimmy-lais-company-skyrocketed-788-since-his-arrest-319687" hreflang="en">Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai's company skyrocketed 788% since his arrest</a>

The moves have provoked outrage in the West and fear for millions who last year took to the streets to protest communist China's tightening grip on the semi-autonomous city.

Mainland-born Lai, who was smuggled into Hong Kong on a fishing boat when he was a penniless 12-year-old, is one of the most prominent democracy activists in the city and an ardent critic of Communist Party rule in Beijing.

His arrest came&nbsp;amid a crackdown on the pro-democracy opposition in Hong Kong that has drawn international criticism and raised fears for freedoms promised by Beijing under a "one country, two systems" formula.

The sweeping security law imposed on June 30 punishes anything China considers secession, subversion, terrorism or collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison.

The city's Beijing-backed government and Chinese authorities say the law is necessary to restore order after months of at times violent anti-government protests last year, sparked by fears China was slowly eroding those freedoms.

Hong Kong has since become another source of contention between the United States and China, whose relations were already at their most strained in years over issues including trade, the coronavirus, China's treatment of its Uighur Muslim minority and its claims in the South China Sea.

Britain said Lai's arrest was further evidence the security law was a "pretext to silence opposition", to which China's embassy replied by urging London to stop "using freedom of the press as an excuse to discredit" the law.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been released from police custody, over a day after being detained under a sweeping security law imposed by China. When Lai left a police station he was swarmed by dozens of cheering supporters, some of whom waved copies of his Apple Daily in a show of support.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been released from police custody, over a day after being detained under a sweeping security law imposed by China. When Lai left a police station he was swarmed by dozens of cheering supporters, some of whom waved copies of his Apple Daily in a show of support. A clampdown has gathered pace in Hong Kong since China imposed a sweeping security law in June, with opposition politicians disqualified and activists arrested for social media posts. Also read: Pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai's company skyrocketed 788% since his arrest The moves have provoked outrage in the West and fear for millions who last year took to the streets to protest communist China's tightening grip on the semi-autonomous city. Mainland-born Lai, who was smuggled into Hong Kong on a fishing boat when he was a penniless 12-year-old, is one of the most prominent democracy activists in the city and an ardent critic of Communist Party rule in Beijing. His arrest came amid a crackdown on the pro-democracy opposition in Hong Kong that has drawn international criticism and raised fears for freedoms promised by Beijing under a "one country, two systems" formula. The sweeping security law imposed on June 30 punishes anything China considers secession, subversion, terrorism or collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. The city's Beijing-backed government and Chinese authorities say the law is necessary to restore order after months of at times violent anti-government protests last year, sparked by fears China was slowly eroding those freedoms. Hong Kong has since become another source of contention between the United States and China, whose relations were already at their most strained in years over issues including trade, the coronavirus, China's treatment of its Uighur Muslim minority and its claims in the South China Sea. Britain said Lai's arrest was further evidence the security law was a "pretext to silence opposition", to which China's embassy replied by urging London to stop "using freedom of the press as an excuse to discredit" the law.

Hong Kong residents have rallied behind the pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily after its founder Jimmy Lai was detained

Hong Kong Security Law: Jimmy Lai to be soon released on bail

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Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai released on bail