‘I will not back down’: Eddie Chu defiant after police arrest six over death threats

A defiant Eddie Chu Hoi-dick has praised police efforts after six men were arrested in connection to death threats made against the lawmaker-elect and his family.

“I am pleased police made arrests today. But this does not mean the threats against my family and I will be eliminated,” Chu said.

Suspected Wo Shing Wo triad members were understood be among the six Hongkongers, aged 18 to 53, detained on Wednesday morning in a series of raids across the city.

Police also impounded two cars – a Lexus and a Honda – which were suspected to have been used to tail Chu. Officers are also investigating whether a rural strongman with triad connections was involved in making the threats.

No charges have officially been laid. The investigation is continuing.

Crackdown on Hong Kong triads intensifies after death threats against lawmaker Eddie Chu

It is understood police were investigating whether the alleged intimidation efforts were linked to Chu’s campaign against the development of a plot of land in Wang Chau, Yuen Long, which the government later decided to shelve amid strong opposition from rural leaders.

Chu said the threats and intimidation began to affect the safety of his family during the Legislative Council elections when he voiced concerns over possible collusion between the government, business, rural leaders and triads in the Wang Chau project.

The threats and intimidation prompted police to offer the newly elected lawmaker and his family round-the-clock protection about a fortnight ago. Chu had to change his home every day as part of the protection plan.

“Those behind the intimidators and the power behind the collusion between the government, business, rural leaders and triads still controls Hong Kong’s political developments and our lives,” Chu said.

“I will not back down. I hope you continue to join me to fight against unfair development and collusion and work hard for open, transparent and democratic system and life.”

Wednesday’s arrests came just hours before Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying fronted media to announce the details of the controversial Wang Chau development.

Chu said he would continue to co-operate with police and would discuss his safety arrangements.