Human Rights Groups Condemn Arrest Related to Exiled Activist

Human rights organizations are criticizing the arrest of a family member of Anna Kwok, a democratic activist who has been exiled and is wanted by Hong Kong authorities. This incident marks a significant moment as it’s the first known case of the national security law being used against activists living outside of Hong Kong.

Anna Kwok, 28, serves as the executive director of the Hong Kong Council of Democracy based in Washington, D.C. She is among 19 activists targeted by Hong Kong’s national security police, who are offering a reward of HK$1 million (approximately £97,000) for information that could lead to her arrest.

On April 30, Kwok’s father, aged 68, and her 35-year-old brother were apprehended. Authorities allege that the brother was involved in helping Anna alter her life insurance policy and withdraw its remaining value. While Kwok’s father has been charged and remains in custody, her brother was released on bail and is awaiting further inquiries.

“The Chinese government has escalated the harsh use of collective punishment against the families of Hong Kong peace activists. Authorities in Hong Kong must release Anna Kwok’s father immediately and cease harassment of the families of activists,” commented Yarkun Ulyol, a researcher with Human Rights Watch.

Chainaid, a human rights organization based in the U.S., expressed concern, stating: “This represents a troubling and significant escalation in the retribution against the families of exiled activists, an obvious attempt to silence dissent abroad by attacking their families at home.”

Hong Kong police have often interrogated relatives of exiled activists. In recent months, members of Tony Chung’s family, Francis Hui and Carmen Lau, have faced similar scrutiny, along with threats sent to their neighbors, including rewards for information leading to their capture.

This case represents a notable precedent, being the first occasion a relative of an activist has been charged criminally under these laws. If convicted, Kwok’s father could face up to a seven-year prison term. His bail request was denied, and the case has been postponed until June 13, according to reports.

Neither the Hong Kong Police nor the Hong Kong Council of Democracy responded immediately to inquiries about the situation. Attempts to reach Anna Kwok for comment were unsuccessful.