Hong Kong Cardinal Arrested, Accused of Violating China’s National Security Law

HONG KONGKOMPAS.com – Police confirm that one of the most senior members of the Catholic Church was arrested in Hong Kong for violating China’s national security law.

Cardinal Joseph Zen, 90, is one of four people detained for links to the now-defunct organization. This organization helps protesters in need of finance.

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Other figures arrested were Cantopop singer and actor Denise Ho, former legislator Margaret Ng and academic Dr Hui Po Keung.

They were accused of colluding with foreign troops.

If found guilty, they could face life imprisonment.

Human Rights Watch called the arrests a surprising new low for Hong Kong.

Hong Kong police told BBC that the group is suspected of soliciting foreign countries or organizations to impose sanctions on Hong Kong, thereby threatening China’s national security.

Cardinal Zen fled Shanghai for Hong Kong after the communists took over China 70 years ago. He is a former bishop of Hong Kong.

He has long been a critic of the government in Beijing, speaking for Catholics in mainland China and for more democracy in Hong Kong.

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He once publicly rebuked the Vatican for “betrayal” for China, forcing bishops to retire in favor of successors chosen by Beijing.

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