HKSAR Government Issues Warrants for 16 Overseas Activists Accused of National Security Offences

On Monday, Chris Tang Ping-keung, the secretary for security of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), utilized authority granted under the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance to declare 16 overseas activists as wanted individuals due to alleged national security offenses. These arrest warrants were issued by the courts based on suspicions that the individuals engaged in actions threatening national security outside of the HKSAR.

The specified wanted individuals include a mix of men and women who have been recognized for engaging in activities deemed harmful to national security. The government has also published notices in the Gazette detailing the measures aimed at addressing the situation of these absconders, specifically targeting those who have evaded law enforcement.

Among those named, 16 absconders were placed on the wanted list following an action by the National Security Department of the Hong Kong Police Force on July 25. This list also includes three other individuals who were previously identified as absconders in June and December 2024, thus reinforcing a continuing effort to locate and apprehend these individuals who are alleged to be part of a subversive entity known as the "Hong Kong Parliament."

The authorities have implemented several legal measures against the identified absconders, including restrictions on financial transactions, limitations on activities related to real estate, and prohibitions on forming partnerships with these fugitives. Additionally, most of these individuals face the cancellation of their HKSAR passports, while certain absconders may additionally experience temporary removal from their director positions.

A spokesperson for the HKSAR government emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that these individuals have sought refuge in various countries and are actively participating in activities that undermine national security. The spokesperson reiterated that such measures are crucial in addressing the perceived threat posed by these individuals and in maintaining national integrity.