Exiled Hong Kong activist Ms. Lau has become a target of a harassment campaign. This campaign involves threatening letters sent from Hong Kong and Macau. Local MP Joshua Reynolds alerted her about constituents receiving these letters.
Background on Ms. Lau
In 2021, Ms. Lau sought asylum in the UK. She fled Hong Kong due to the crackdown on opposition politicians and pro-democracy activists following the National Security Law’s enactment. Since her relocation, she has actively criticized the Chinese government’s actions and policies.
Threats from Hong Kong Authorities
The harassment intensified last year when neighbors in Kent reported receiving threatening letters. These missives, allegedly from Hong Kong police, offered a bounty of £95,000 for anyone who could capture Ms. Lau and deliver her to the Chinese embassy in London.
Recent Developments
In a disturbing turn, new letters emerged last month, this time sent from Macau. Ms. Lau expressed her shock at the explicit content of these latest communications. She noted the shift from ambiguous threats to clear intimidation.
Gender-Based Harassment
While addressing the situation, Ms. Lau remarked on the targeting of female activists. She highlighted how pro-Beijing agents have historically utilized gender-based harassment against pro-democracy figures in Hong Kong. Moreover, she pointed out that advancements in AI technology have escalated this form of intimidation.
Concerns Over Safety and Implications
The ongoing harassment campaign raises significant safety concerns for Ms. Lau and other activists. The combination of traditional intimidation tactics and modern technology raises alarms over the potential for increased transnational repression.
- Exiled Hong Kong activist: Ms. Lau
- Asylum sought in the UK: 2021
- Threatening letters sent: Last year and last month
- Bounty offered: £95,000
- Letters from locations: Hong Kong, Macau
Ms. Lau continues to advocate for democratic freedoms while facing intense harassment. The deteriorating situation reflects broader issues surrounding China’s approach to dissent, particularly against those advocating for human rights.
