Hong Kong: 14 democracy activists convicted in landmark case

The verdict comes several years after a pro-democracy movement sparked major protests in the city against a Beijing-imposed national security law. Only two of the accused were acquitted.

Hong Kong’s High Court on Thursday found 14 activists guilty of “subversion” in the city’s biggest trial against pro-democracy campaigners since China imposed a national security law (NSL).

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In 2021, 47 protesters and activists, known as the Hong Kong 47, were charged under the national security law with “conspiracy to commit subversion.”

While 16 of them maintained their innocence throughout the trial, the remaining 31 pleaded guilty, hoping for more lenient sentences.

Those found guilty could face from three years to life in jail. The sentencing is expected later this year.