Jimmy Lai National Security case concludes as CE says heavy sentence sends strong warning

Next Digital founder Jimmy Lai's national security case has concluded with a 20-year prison term.

Chief Executive John Lee said the heavy sentence serves as a stern warning to those who collude with external forces to endanger national security.

Former media tycoon Jimmy Lai, facing 20 years behind bars.

Senior executives of now-shuttered Apple Daily and two activists convicted of national security-related offences received jail terms of up to ten years.

Chief Executive John Lee said the sentencing demonstrates the rule of law.

JOHN LEE: "Jimmy Lai, who has betrayed the country and Hong Kong, has been sentenced to 20 years imprisonment -- a heavy punishment that sends a solemn warning."

With more than 2,400 people having to face legal consequences for various offences committed during the 2019 social unrest as of the end of last year, the city leader says Lai's impact had been far-reaching.

That said, Hong Kong as a whole has already paid a heavy price. Poisoned by Lai and Apple Daily under his control, some of our citizens, especially young people, have been misled to break the law and become radical. Western countries and also politicians have been bad-mouthing Hong Kong's righteous action. We will resolutely fulfil our duty to safeguard national security."