Police Abroad Make Mass Arrests Too: John Lee

Security Secretary John Lee on Wednesday hit back at criticism from foreign politicians and activists over the arrests of 15 prominent pro-democracy figures in Hong Kong on Saturday, saying it's nothing police in their own countries wouldn't do.

Top barristers Martin Lee and Margaret Ng, and media tycoon Jimmy Lai were among those rounded up and charged with organising and joining unlawful anti-government protests, prompting strong criticism from the US, the UK and others.

But John Lee said the condemnation from the likes of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the British foreign ministry, were clear cases of double standards.

Speaking to reporters in Legco, he said what the Hong Kong police had done in making the arrests was no different to regular action by their overseas counterparts.

The security chief said those foreigners criticising the action appear to have forgotten that police in their own countries have been known to make multiple arrests at the same time.

He urged Hong Kong people not to let themselves be exploited by foreigners who "will not have the interests of Hongkongers in mind".

Meanwhile, John Lee said he wanted to give people a "stern reminder" about the growing risk of domestic terrorism in Hong Kong.

He said there have been around a dozen explosives incidents since last July, and being as bombs can kill indiscriminately, everyone in the SAR should be concerned.

Asked about police arresting one of their own sergeants this month over an alleged plot to petrol bomb a police station, the secretary said officers do not "actively take part in illegal activities".

He said the force is law-abiding and there is an emphasis on discipline.