Hong Kong’s High Court has delivered a significant verdict in a high-profile national security case, sentencing media tycoon Jimmy Lai Chee-ying to 20 years imprisonment. The ruling concluded a lengthy judicial process that began with Lai’s conviction in December on multiple charges related to national security violations.
The court found Lai guilty on two counts of conspiring to collude with external forces and one count of conspiracy to publish seditious materials. The case, which formally commenced proceedings in December 2023, involved three specially appointed judges operating under Hong Kong’s national security legal framework.
Beyond the individual defendant, the legal action encompassed corporate entities associated with Lai’s media operations. Apple Daily Limited, Apple Daily Printing Limited, and Apple Daily Internet Limited faced parallel charges for their alleged roles in the conspiracy. The prosecution presented evidence suggesting coordinated efforts between these organizations and external parties.
The mitigation hearing, which took place in January, allowed both defense and prosecution to present arguments regarding sentencing considerations. Security measures remained heightened throughout the proceedings, with armored prison vehicles and increased police presence observed at the West Kowloon Law Courts Building during the final sentencing.
This case represents one of the most significant applications of Hong Kong’s national security legislation since its implementation, drawing international attention to the region’s judicial handling of security-related matters. The verdict underscores the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s continued enforcement of national security laws amid ongoing legal developments.