Posted on 07/01/2020 7:59:16 AM PDT by SeekAndFind
Beijing unveiled the details of the much-anticipated law late on Tuesday after weeks of uncertainty, pushing China’s freest city and one of the world’s most glittering financial hubs on to a more authoritarian path.
As thousands of protesters gathered for an annual rally marking the anniversary of the former British colony’s handover to China in 1997, riot police used pepper spray and fired pellets as they made arrests after crowds spilled into the streets chanting “resist till the end” and “Hong Kong independence”.
“I’m scared of going to jail but for justice I have to come out today, I have to stand up,” said one 35-year-old man who gave his name as Seth.
Police said they had made more than 300 arrests for illegal assembly and other offences, with nine involving violations of the new law.
The law punishes crimes of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison, will see mainland security agencies in Hong Kong for the first time and allows extradition to the mainland for trial.
China’s parliament adopted the law in response to protests last year triggered by fears that Beijing was stifling the city’s freedoms, guaranteed by a “one country, two systems” formula agreed when it returned to Chinese rule. Beijing denies the accusation.
Hong Kong police cited the law in confronting protesters.
“You are displaying flags or banners/chanting slogans/or conducting yourselves with an intent such as secession or subversion, which may constitute offences under the ... national security law,” police said in a message displayed on a purple banner.
Authorities in Beijing and Hong Kong have repeatedly said the legislation is aimed at a few “troublemakers” and will not affect rights and freedoms, nor investors’ interests.
But critics fear it will end the pro-democracy opposition and crush freedoms,
(Excerpt) Read more at reuters.com ...
Unfortunately Hong Kng knew this day would come and it’s not going to get any better.
Are we looking into the American future?
I would really like to fight tyranny and the militant atheists rampaging through America before they reach my doorstep but I have to go to work (I’m in construction thus essential for now).
Maybe I and other Patriots will have no choice next year after we are unemployed and in total pissed-off shock as Biden’s 100 day plan gets rolling (No way evil lets Trump win).
It’s painful when optimism meets reality BUT, I’m hopeful AND preparing...
“Unfortunately Hong Kng knew this day would come and it’s not going to get any better.”
Are you celebrating? I bet you are.
This “law” applies to anyone anywhere.
Seriously, we are breaking this law.
Look for Chicoms to try and enforce it through the UN and receptive governments.
No I’m not celebrating. Nothing to celebrate as China takes over.....
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