Lee Ka-chiu says HK will not meddle in mainland law enforcement

Hong Kong will not interfere in the law enforcement of other jurisdictions, the Secretary for Security John Lee Ka-chiu, said.

He was referring calls for Hong Kong to intervene on behalf of the 12 people arrested in mainland waters on August 23, and now under criminal detention with the Yantian office of the Shenzhen Public Security Bureau.

Lee said the government will keep track of latest developments, while the Immigration Department will liaise with family members to assist.

He also noted three principles on handling cross-boundary crime.

Anyone should respect the local law wherever they are and take responsibility for their own actions, including bearing legal liabilities.

The second principle is that the government respects each jurisdiction operating by their own law.

The government will provide practicable assistance to any Hong Kong citizen suspected of breaking the law outside the city, without intervening with other countries' jurisdiction.

As for reports of five locals detained in Taiwan for two months, Lee said he does not have any information.

“Anyone who broke the law must eventually face consequences,” Lee said.