Two Individuals Sentenced to Five Years’ Imprisonment for Riot Charges
Background and Charges
On 17th November 2019, a violent protest took place at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), during which a group of individuals engaged in riotous behaviour. The protest began as a peaceful gathering but quickly escalated into a violent confrontation with the police. The rioters threw petrol bombs, bricks, and other projectiles at the police, who responded with tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets.
Two individuals, identified as Wong Wai-hung and Li Kwai-yin, were arrested and charged with rioting. The prosecution alleged that the two individuals played a leading role in the violence, inciting others to join the riot and throwing projectiles at the police.
Trial and Sentencing
The trial began in May 2023. The prosecution presented evidence of the defendants’ involvement in the riot, including video footage and witness testimony. The defendants denied the charges, claiming that they were acting in self-defence.
On 23rd June 2023, the court found Wong and Li guilty of rioting. The judge sentenced both individuals to five years’ imprisonment. In his sentencing remarks, the judge stated that the defendants’ actions were a serious threat to public order and that their sentences should serve as a deterrent to others.
Reaction and Fallout
The sentencing of Wong and Li has sparked mixed reactions. Some people have praised the court for handing down a stiff sentence, while others have condemned the punishment as excessive. The case has also raised concerns about the use of excessive force by the police during the PolyU protest.
The sentencing is likely to have a chilling effect on future protests in Hong Kong. Activists fear that the government will use the case to justify further crackdowns on dissent.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Wong and Li is a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the 2019 PolyU protest. The case highlights the challenges faced by Hong Kong’s justice system in dealing with the aftermath of the protest and the wider issues of political unrest and police violence in the city.
Kind regards
E. Thompson
