In 2019, many young people, misled by false information from peers and social media, engaged in extreme behaviors that even endangered national security, ultimately bearing heavy legal consequences.

This episode of Sing Tao Probe invited two youngsters, who were arrested for participating in riots, to share their journeys, their reflections post-arrest and their understanding of national security.

Wai: "I thought I’d get away with it"

Wai (pseudonym), then only 17 years old, was arrested during the 2019 Polytechnic University siege and later sentenced to a juvenile training center for rioting. He recalled being urged by friends to join the protest at PolyU, believing he would not face consequences—only to be detained and convicted.

When sentenced, his first reaction was despair and helplessness, knowing he would be separated from his family for a long time. Adjusting to life in the correctional facility was difficult; he felt stripped of freedom, and time crawled.

 
Wai has now served one and a half years of his sentence. Reflecting on his past crimes, he deeply regrets his actions: "I really regret it." He revealed that during his time in the training center, his family consistently supported and accepted him, visiting him come rain or shine.

This made him realize the importance of family and understand that those who care most for him are not his friends, but his family.

Wai expressed remorse and guilt for causing his family worry, admitting that his past behavior was extremely reckless. He never considered his family's feelings at the time—acting on impulse without thinking of the consequences.

Deepen understanding of the nation, strive to improve and repay family

Wai now lives a strict and disciplined life in the training center and participates in various training programs to enhance his skills. Interested in the food and beverage industry, he has taken advantage of the institution's culinary training classes, learning latte art and dessert-making under professional guidance.

The institution organizes different activities to encourage inmate participation, including sessions on national and national security awareness.

Wai stated that these have deepened his understanding of the country. He believes that since the implementation of the National Security Law, Hong Kong society has become safer, restoring its former order and stability.

Wai hopes society will give him a second chance. He admits his academic performance was poor in the past but is now working hard to learn, aiming to take responsibility in the future, contribute to society, and most importantly, repay his family.

Deeply remorseful for his past, he wants to tell his family "I love you" as gratitude. Upon reintegrating into society, he plans to spend more time with his family and work hard to support them financially, making up for his past mistakes.

Fai: Acted on impulse, once feared bullying in prison

Another youngster, 22-year-old Fai (pseudonym), was also arrested during the 2019 PolyU siege and sentenced to a training center for rioting. He has since completed his sentence. At the time of the offense, Fai Jai was only 17 years old.

He recalled going to PolyU with like-minded friends out of concern for their safety, admitting he knew the actions were illegal but never expected such a long sentence. Initially, he feared the unknown environment of the institution and worried about being bullied, leaving him anxious and unsettled.

Courses deepen understanding of national perspective; Grateful for family's support through difficult times

Fai mentioned that during his time at the training center, the Correctional Services Department arranged courses to enhance national awareness, such as calligraphy competitions and Chinese history lessons, which helped him gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and the nation's stance.

He feels that society is constantly evolving, especially with Hong Kong and China facing new opportunities and challenges.

While at the facility, Fai Jai participated in various training programs and even had the opportunity to intern at local organizations. He is now pursuing a degree program. Reflecting on his experience, he admitted that it made him realize the importance of dedicating time to self-improvement, both for his own future and his family's well-being.

The emotional support from his family made him recognize their irreplaceable role in his life. Knowing they always stand behind him, he sees them as his unwavering "safe harbor" in times of turbulence.

These two young men were sentenced to a training center for rioting offenses. The detainment resulting from momentary impulsiveness brought tremendous suffering to both themselves and their families.

Deeply remorseful, they have learned from their painful experiences. Whether still in custody or already reintegrated into society, they have resolved to re-educate themselves - to better understand themselves and their nation - so they may contribute to their country, society and families.

They also hope society will offer other youth with similar experiences the same opportunity for rehabilitation and a fresh start.