Advertisement

Activists warned over bail protests

Reading Time:2 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
0

A police union leader and a lawmaker warned activists who terminated their bail they could be rearrested at any time.

Activists arrested recently during several demonstrations have adopted the practice of terminating their bail as a protest over lengthy police investigations and what they claim are 'political' arrests.

The protesters want police to decide whether or not to bring charges against them within 48 hours, the maximum time a person can be held without being charged.

Benjamin Tsang Chiu-fo, the newly elected chairman of the Police Inspectors' Association, said he was aware that some protesters might be using this action to achieve certain political aims or arouse concern.

Police can keep suspects on bail for months before deciding if they will be charged.

They can also extend the bail period if they need more time for their investigations.

He said bail was set to ensure that suspects would appear at a police station on a certain day to facilitate inquiries.

Advertisement
Select Voice
Choose your listening speed
Get through articles 2x faster
1.25x
250 WPM
Slow
Average
Fast
1.25x