HK Arrests Aimed To Spread Terror: Rights Groups

Rights organisations have slammed the arrests of four Hong Kong students on Wednesday night, saying the new national security law is being used to suppress dissent and spread “white terror” in the city.

Amnesty International said the arrests of the group, accused of organising and inciting secessionist activities, were a "significant and alarming moment" for freedom of expression in the city.

The group's Asia-Pacific regional director, Nicholas Bequelin, said the four could face life in prison if found guilty based on posts on social media.

He said this lays bare the draconian nature of the national security law, and sends a chill throughout society.

“The idea that anybody can now be jailed for expressing their political opinion on Facebook or Instagram will send a chill throughout Hong Kong society.“

Bequelin said the Hong Kong authorities must stop using the legislation as a pretext to excessively restrict human rights.

“No one should be arrested solely for expressing an opinion that is contrary to that of the government,” he said.

Meanwhile Sophie Richardson, a China expert with Human Rights Watch, said the new legislation was being wielded against peaceful political speech.

"The gross misuse of this draconian law makes clear that the aim is to silence dissent, not protect national security," she said.