Police launch special rehabilitation program for 2019 unrest youths offenders, says Chris Tang

Hong Kong police have introduced a special program aimed at helping young people arrested but not prosecuted during the 2019 social unrest rebuild their lives, Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung said on Sunday. 

More than 10,000 people were arrested during the 2019 unrest. Nearly 3,000 of them were prosecuted and about 2,400 faced legal consequences, according to police figures.

Speaking on a radio program, Tang said police have spent the past two years reaching out to these youths. While he did not disclose details of the program, he emphasized its focus on supporting participants through constructive engagement.

He believes the majority of the young people involved were not malicious but were misled by misinformation and inflammatory messages.

Tang urged the public to be understanding and forward-looking, noting that everyone can make mistakes. He shared a personal anecdote about skipping class as a youth, adding that people can still turn out well despite past errors.

Regarding those jailed over the protests, Tang noted that only a small proportion remain behind bars, with most having been released. He said many of those released now express remorse for their actions.

For young people who have served their sentences, the Correctional Services Department has launched the Project PATH rehabilitation program, which helps them learn national history and plan for future careers. Tang said some former inmates have since returned to school or found employment.