Mask Firm Closes Over National Security Allegation

A company selling face masks suspended operations on Wednesday after it was accused by pro-Beijing media of violating the national security law.

Yellow Factory said it had temporarily shut down its outlets in Mong Kok and Causeway Bay, as well as its online store.

“Yellow Factory has no intention of violating the national security law. For the interests of our staff and customers, our shops and online store have temporarily stopped operating,” the company said in a statement on its website.

An article published by Wen Wei Po and Ta Kung Pao on Monday accused the company, which opened in April, of trying to incite hatred and violence among young people and keep the "opposition spirit alive".

The article pointed out that the acronym FDNOL, which could refer to “Five Demands, Not One Less”, was printed on some of the masks produced by the company.

It also said the firm's logo resembled a protester wearing a yellow helmet and goggles, while its outlets featured paintings that appeared to insult state leaders and the police.

The authorities recently suggested that the “Five Demands, Not One Less” protest slogan is somehow illegal. The slogan was allegedly shouted by People Power activist Tam Tak-chi who is in custody as he awaits trial on sedition charges.