In a significant development, Hong Kong police have taken into custody two family members of Anna Kwok, a pro-democracy activist currently residing in the United States. The 26-year-old Kwok, who is the Executive Director of the Hong Kong Democracy Council in Washington, D.C., has been charged with violating the stringent national security laws after participating in mass protests in 2019.
The arrested individuals, identified as Kwok Yin-sang, 68, and his son, 35, are accused of assisting Anna Kwok with her financial matters. This incident signifies an unprecedented move by Hong Kong authorities, as it is the first time that relatives of a pro-democracy activist deemed an "absconder" have been apprehended under the territory's security law. Reports from Reuters indicate that police began their investigation after observing the two meeting with Anna Kwok overseas.
The elder Kwok is allegedly implicated in efforts to manage his daughter's insurance policy following his return to Hong Kong, with claims that he sought access to funds on her behalf. As a result, he has been denied bail by a national security judge, whereas the 35-year-old brother has been granted bail pending further inquiries.
In a concerning pattern, the Hong Kong government imposed bounties on several pro-democracy figures who sought refuge abroad in 2023, including Anna Kwok, accusing them of colluding with foreign entities. This tactic drew criticism from Kwok, who described it as an attempt to intimidate activists and quash dissent.
Since the handover from Britain to China in 1997, Hong Kong has maintained certain freedoms in contrast to mainland China. However, these liberties have been increasingly eroded under recent government measures.
