Mystery Monkey Deaths in Hong Kong Zoo
Hong Kong's Oldest Zoo is in Crisis:** Nine monkeys have died under mysterious circumstances at the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, including three critically endangered cotton-top tamarins. What's killing them?
Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Activist Jimmy Lai's Courageous Testimony
Jimmy Lai, the 77-year-old Hong Kong pro-democracy activist and media tycoon, took the stand in his trial this week.** He's charged with two counts of conspiracy to commit foreign collusion and one count of publishing seditious material. Lai, a British citizen, is accused of asking the US and other foreign countries to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and mainland China. He denies all charges. **This is the first time Lai has spoken in court in a case that has been delayed for years.
Hong Kong Jails Pro-Democracy Activists in Largest Security Trial Ever
45 pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong have been sentenced to jail terms ranging from four to ten years.** They were convicted of conspiracy to commit subversion after holding an unofficial primary election in 2020. Democracy activist Benny Tai received the longest sentence of ten years, while Joshua Wong was sentenced to more than four years. The US has called the trial "politically motivated".
Hong Kong: Stand News Editors Sentenced in Sedition Case
Two former editors of Stand News, an independent news outlet in Hong Kong, have been sentenced in a landmark sedition case. Chung Pui-kuen, the former editor-in-chief, received 21 months in prison, while Patrick Lam, the former acting editor-in-chief, had his sentence reduced due to ill health. The case is seen as a barometer for press freedom in Hong Kong, as Stand News was one of the last media outlets to voice criticism of authorities amid a crackdown from Beijing. The latest World Press Freedom Index ranks Hong Kong as 135th out of 180 territories, down from 80th place in 2021 and 18th place in 2002.
