2023-12-18 00:09:47
Next Media founder Jimmy Lai and three companies of “Apple Daily” have been charged with conspiracy to collude with foreign forces. The case will be tried today and is expected to last 80 days. There will be no jury in this case, and it will be heard by three judges designated by the National Security Law.
The case was heard at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Court. Security was strengthened outside the court, with anti-terrorism service teams, armored vehicles and police cars on guard outside the court. Iron horses were added to the scene, with dozens of police officers patrolling and police dogs assisting. Observers and judicial officers are required to undergo security checks before entering the court.
Jimmy Lai, three companies of Apple Daily and six former senior executives of Apple Daily were charged with conspiracy to collude with foreign countries or external forces to endanger national security and conspiracy to publish seditious publications; Jimmy Lai was also charged with two counts of violating the National Security Law The charges include conspiring with Li Yuxuan and others to collude with foreign countries or overseas forces, and colluding with foreign countries or overseas forces. The former senior executives of Next Media and others involved in the case pleaded guilty earlier, and some of them will testify as “accessory witnesses” in Jimmy Lai’s case.
As the case attracted public attention, the Judiciary made special arrangements. In addition to the main trial court, the other two courtrooms and the court extension area on the fourth floor of the court building were also opened to the public and the media for live video viewing. The jury assembly area on the eighth floor of the building was also opened. There will be a public gallery to observe the case, and the total number of public admission tickets is more than 300.
Security was tightened outside the court, with anti-terrorism SWAT teams, armored vehicles and police cars on guard outside the court. (Photo by Chen Jiaxin)
There were police officers patrolling outside the court, and police dogs were also available to assist. (Photo by Chen Jiaxin)
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