HK "back On The Right Track": Security Bureau

The Security Bureau on Monday gave its backing to the actions of the police, and their enforcement of the national security law, saying Hong Kong was being brought back "on the right track".

The statement was made in the wake of Monday's high profile arrests under the national security law and the searching of the Tseung Kwan O offices of the pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper. Ten people were detained, including Apple Daily founder, Jimmy Lai. Later in day, the democracy activist Agnes Chow was also reportedly arrested.

In response to media enquiries, the bureau said it would not comment on operational details. However, it said police had a responsibility to collect evidence, and search warrants were applied for in accordance with the law. It said searches are carried out according to the authorisation under the warrant.

"The Security Bureau staunchly pushes forward and supports the enforcement work of the police in taking lawful measures to prevent, suppress and punish those acts and activities endangering national security, with a view to safeguarding national security and bringing Hong Kong back on the right track," the statement said.

Later, the police put out a separate statement saying officers of the National Security Department conducted a search operation with a warrant issued by a magistrate.

It said nine men and a woman, aged between 23 and 72, were arrested and that all were being detained for further enquiries.

The statement said they were suspected of collusion with a foreign country, in contravention of Article 29 of the national security law, and of conspiracy to defraud.

The police said the investigation was underway and further arrests might be made.