'First Trial Under Hong Kong National Security Law For Motorcyclist Who RAMMED Police'<br /><br />After being accused of driving a motorcycle into police officers Tong Ying-Kit has become the first person to face trial under Hong Kong’s new national security law.<br /><br />Ying-Kit was arrested in July 2020, for driving into officers whilst bearing a Hong Kong protest flag.<br /><br />The flag had the slogan “Liberate Hong Kong, the revolution of our times”, which is now condemned after the national security law made calls for independence illegal.<br /><br />The slogan was often chanted during anti-government demonstrations in 2019.<br /><br />Protesters were angry with a new extradition law and the strengthening grip of China on Hong Kong's affairs. <br /><br />The pro-Beijing government responded to the protests with a number of measures, including the national security law, which criminalises subversion and secession.<br /><br />The 24-year-old pleaded not guilty, and faces life in prison if convicted.<br /><br />A court ruled last month that he will stand trial without jury and instead face a panel of three judges. <br /><br />Under the national security law, leaders have the power to designate judges to hear such cases.<br /><br />A number of protest leaders and other activists have also been charged under the law.<br /><br />#HongKong #China #NationalSecurityLaw<br />
