Chief Superintendent Steve Li Kwai-wah of the National Security Department
National security police have arrested four men, including a 15-year-old teenager, on suspicion of conspiring to subvert state power by promoting Hong Kong independence and desecrating the national flag as part of a Taiwan-based group.
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The arrestees, aged between 15 and 47, the secretary-general, convocation council or ordinary members of an organization based in Taipei that announced its establishment on social media in November 2024 and recruited members since, police said.
Alleged activities: flag desecration, independence advocation
On July 1, the 28th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to China, the organization allegedly held an overseas event where participants trampled on the Chinese national flag and the Hong Kong regional flag, according to authorities.
In February last year, the group reportedly released its “action plan” in an online press conference calling for the “overthrow of the Communist Party,” “liberation of Hong Kong,” international support, and military training to Hongkongers abroad.
Chief Superintendent Steve Li Kwai-wah of the National Security Department said, during the arrest operation, police seized electronic devices revealing the suspects’ local activities and a proposal seeking US support for “Hong Kong political prisoners.”
Group reportedly used encrypted apps for comms, held regular meetings
He revealed that the organization primarily operated through social media platforms and encrypted communication tools, with clear evidence of coordination and leadership, as well as regular gatherings and meetings.
“They had different roles. According to our investigation, these included designing what they called their organization, national flag, emblem, and banners,”
“Some were specifically tasked with researching how to gain support from foreign forces, and even some who planned to organize military training for their members.”
Youngest arrestee only 15 years old
Li described the alleged offenses as “extremely serious,” carrying a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, and highlighted that the youngest arrestee is only aged 15.
Parental Responsibility Highlighted in Teen’s Involvement
“[He] was not even 10 years old during ‘black violence’ (2019 social unrest). Why would these people participate? In addition to the influence of incitement, I believe the responsibility falls heavily on parents.”
He urged parents to monitor their children’s social circles and online activities, emphasizing that acts endangering national security will be severely punished.
