At least four suspects released on bail after being accused of helping Hong Kong fugitives flee; others expected to follow, source says
- The 11 were arrested by the police force’s National Security Department on Thursday morning
- Police source says the force will not prosecute the group at this stage, although the investigation is ongoing
All suspects still in custody on suspicion of helping a dozen Hong Kong fugitives flee the city last year were expected to be released on bail by Friday night, the Post has learned.
At least four of the 11 arrested by the police force’s National Security Department on Thursday morning have already been freed.
The eight men and three women, aged 18 to 72, including Kowloon City district councillor and lawyer Daniel Wong Kwok-tung, were detained on suspicion of assisting offenders, a breach of the Criminal Procedure Ordinance that carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in jail.
A police source said the force would not prosecute the group at this stage and would grant them bail, although the investigation was ongoing.
Wong, 72, was arrested at his home at around 6am on Thursday and taken to his councillor’s office in Kowloon City as officers searched it.
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National security police arrest 11 suspected of helping 12 Hong Kong fugitives
“Until now, I cannot understand why I have been arrested. Lawyers will not knowingly break the law,” Wong said following his release shortly after 11.30pm. “I will continue to use my position and my experience to continue what I believe I should do.”