Held Fanling Duo 'may Have Breached Security Law'

Police said two people they arrested on Thursday for allegedly possessing weapons are now also suspected of breaching the national security law as well.

Police had arrested the 49-year-old woman and her son, who's 23, in the early hours of Thursday morning at their home in Fanling.

Officers said the pair were linked to the discovery of a pepper ball gun, two combat knives, an expandable baton, a bullet proof vest and 15 military grade respirators.

Senior Superintendent Li Kwai-wah of the police's National Security Department said officers believe the weapons were to be sold via social media.

And on the same social media page, he said, there were messages promoting Hong Kong independence and the use of violence, as well as calls for people to fight against the Chinese Communist Party.

As well as weapons offences, the mother and son are now also suspected of inciting secession, which comes under the national security law, and carries a maximum punishment of life in prison.

Li also said the force fears that the weapons seized might have been destined for use in attacks on police at future anti-government protests.