Hong Kong Protests: Long Sentences Under UN Anti-Terrorism Laws

Hong Kong's high court sentenced Ng Chi-hung to over 23 years for plotting attacks on police during the 2019 protests. The case marked the first time Hong Kong used the UN Anti-Terrorism Ordinance. Another protest leader received over 13 years amid tightening national security measures in the city.

In a critical move, Hong Kong's high court has sentenced Ng Chi-hung to 23 years and 10 months for conspiring to attack police with explosives during the 2019 pro-democracy protests. Prosecutors charged Ng under the United Nations Anti-Terrorism Ordinance, making this a landmark case in the region.

Another prominent figure, leading a faction known as the 'Dragon Slayers,' received a 13-year and 6-month sentence. These lengthy prison terms highlight the ongoing national security crackdown led by Beijing in Hong Kong, a major global financial hub.

This is notably the first application of the UN Anti-Terrorism Ordinance in Hong Kong since its inception in 2002, underscoring the intensification of legal measures against perceived security threats during periods of civil unrest.

(With inputs from agencies.)