Hong Kong Police Arrest Four on Subversion Charges Linked to Taiwan Organization

The Hong Kong Police Force's National Security Department has apprehended four individuals, aged between 15 and 47, on suspicion of conspiring to subvert state power. These individuals are allegedly connected to an organization based in Taiwan. Local media sources indicate that an investigation into their activities is currently underway.

According to Chief Superintendent Steve Li Kwai-wah of the National Security Department, the group publicly announced its formation on social media in November of the previous year and subsequently began recruiting members. On February 15th of this year, the group held an online press conference from Taipei, where they outlined their action plan, proposed a provisional national flag and anthem, and expressed their intention to seek international support and provide military training to Hong Kong residents abroad.

The police arrested the four individuals on Wednesday. Among those arrested are the organization's secretary-general, a council member, and a regular member. Electronic devices seized during searches revealed their activities in Hong Kong, including a proposal seeking US support for Hong Kong political prisoners and flags promoting separatism.

The group primarily utilized social media and encrypted communications, demonstrating clear signs of coordination and command, including regular meetings and gatherings. This operation highlights the presence of overseas organizations that continue to disseminate messages endangering national security through social media and direct their operatives in Hong Kong to carry out subversive acts.

Chief Superintendent Li expressed concern over the age of the youngest arrestee, who is only 15 years old. He also emphasized the responsibility of parents to monitor their children's associations. The maximum penalty for the crimes committed by the suspects is life imprisonment.