Hong Kong Issues Arrest Warrants for 19 Overseas Activists, Offers Bounties on 15

Hong Kong authorities have issued arrest warrants for 19 overseas-based pro-democracy activists, accusing them of subversion under the controversial National Security Law imposed by Beijing in 2020.

In what marks the largest wave of extraterritorial warrants since the law’s enactment, officials say the individuals face charges linked to efforts to establish a so-called “Hong Kong Parliament.”

Of the 19 named, 15 are now subject to bounties of HK$200,000 each (approximately US$25,500), while four others, already on previous wanted lists, carry bounties of HK$1 million (around US$127,000) each.

The police allege the targeted individuals were involved in attempts to subvert state power, draft an alternative constitution for Hong Kong, and push for self-determination, actions authorities say amount to a direct threat to national sovereignty.

Among the most prominent figures on the list are businessman Elmer Yuen, political commentator Victor Ho, and activists Johnny Fok and Tony Choi — all of whom are currently living abroad.

“Those listed either launched or participated in an illegal referendum or ran as ‘candidates’ in this shadow parliamentary body, attempting to undermine China’s and Hong Kong’s constitutional order,” said the Hong Kong national security police in a statement.

This latest move further underscores the global reach of Hong Kong’s national security apparatus, raising fresh concerns about the erosion of civil liberties and the expanding use of extraterritorial legal powers to silence dissent.

The National Security Law, introduced by Beijing following the massive pro-democracy protests in 2019, criminalizes acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces. While authorities insist the law is necessary to restore order, critics argue it has been wielded as a tool to crush opposition and dismantle the city’s once-vibrant civil society.

Since its enactment, dozens of activists, journalists, and former lawmakers have been arrested or forced into exile, with international human rights groups warning of growing authoritarianism.

In their statement, police also urged the wanted individuals to turn themselves in, suggesting that those who cooperate or provide “key information” could receive reduced sentences.

“If offenders voluntarily cease their criminal acts, surrender, and assist in solving related cases, they may be considered for leniency,” the police warned.

Authorities confirmed that attempts to contact the named individuals had been unsuccessful and that investigations are ongoing, with the possibility of further warrants being issued.