Hong Kong National Security Law targets ‘extreme minority,’ says John Lee

As the Hong Kong National Security Law marks its fifth anniversary, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu emphasized that its enforcement aligns with its original intent, targeting only a “very small number” of individuals endangering national security.

Speaking ahead of his weekly Executive Council meeting on Tuesday, Lee revealed that authorities have arrested a total of 332 people under the law since its enactment, averaging around 66 arrests per year.

He said Hong Kong police make approximately 30,000 arrests annually for all offenses, meaning National Security Law-related arrests account for just 0.2 percent of the total.

“This demonstrates that the law is being implemented prudently and strictly in line with its stated purpose,” Lee said, adding that the law focuses on the extreme minority who threaten national security, also safeguarding stability while minimizing broader impact.

Lee also pointed to a declining trend in national security offenses, crediting public education campaigns, exhibitions, and legal deterrence. However, he vowed to continue cracking down on violations “without hesitation” to prevent risks to the city’s safety.

The law, enacted in June 2020, criminalizes acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces.