Tue Dec 24 08:24:39 UTC 2024: ## Hong Kong Increases Bounty on Overseas Pro-Democracy Activists
**HONG KONG –** Hong Kong authorities have escalated their crackdown on overseas pro-democracy activists, announcing a HK$1 million ($130,000) bounty for information leading to the arrest of six more individuals. This brings the total number of activists on the wanted list to 19, all accused of vaguely defined national security offenses such as secession, subversion, or collusion with foreign forces.
The newly targeted individuals include prominent figures like Tony Chung (former head of Studentlocalism), Joseph Tay (founder of Hongkonger Station), and Carmen Lau (of the Hong Kong Democracy Council). Others named include Chung Kim-wah, Victor Ho, and Chloe Cheung. Authorities also revoked the passports of seven previously listed activists, including former legislator Ted Hui.
Secretary for Security Chris Tang justified the move, claiming the activists endangered national security through actions such as lobbying for sanctions against Hong Kong officials and judges. However, critics argue this is a further tightening of the already limited space for dissent in the city. Many of the targeted individuals reside in Western countries, making extradition unlikely.
Carmen Lau, in a social media post, vowed to continue her fight for Hong Kong despite the bounty. Meanwhile, Australia-based lawyer Kevin Yam, already on the list, criticized the move, stating it will further damage Hong Kong’s international reputation, already tarnished by the ongoing crackdown and strict COVID-19 restrictions. He suggested the timing of the announcement, on Christmas Eve, was a cynical attempt to minimize negative media attention.
The move has drawn condemnation from Western governments and human rights groups who see it as a blatant attack on freedom of speech and political dissent. Hong Kong authorities, however, maintain the measures are necessary to maintain stability following the 2019 anti-government protests.
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