Stand News, Apple Daily Caught Up In Security Probe

Police officers on Wednesday descended on the offices of Stand News with a court warrant, demanding the pro-democracy online media outlet surrender documents within seven days to assist with a national security investigation.

Four plain-clothes officers showed up at the newsroom shortly after the force rounded up dozens of opposition figures, reportedly accusing them of violating the Beijing-imposed security law.

The newsroom wasn't raided, nor was anyone arrested.

Stand News reported that the court order prohibits it from disclosing the content of the warrant. Its chief editor said legal advice would be sought.

Meanwhile, Apple Daily also reported that it had received court papers, asking it to provide documents for an investigation.

Stand News and Apple Daily held election forums for the candidates that took part in last year's pro-democracy primaries.

Around 50 people linked to the polls in one way or another were arrested on Wednesday morning, including several former lawmakers.