Hong Kong Court Sentences Two Autistic Men to Prison Over Pro-Independence Group
Chan Tai-sum and Ng Chi-tung received up to three years and two months in prison for conspiracy to commit secession.
Quick Look
A Hong Kong court sentenced two autistic men, Chan Tai-sum and Ng Chi-tung, to up to three years and two months in prison for conspiring to commit secession via a pro-independence group.
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Why It Matters
Two men were convicted of conspiracy to commit secession involving a Taiwan-based pro-independence group.
A Hong Kong court has sentenced two men with autism to up to three years and two months in prison for their involvement in a pro-independence group seeking to separate the city from Chinese sovereignty.
District Court Judge Ernest Lin Kam-hung on Thursday found that courier Chan Tai-sum, 27, and waiter Ng Chi-tung, 25, had been heavily involved in the Taiwan-based Hong Kong Democratic Independence Union between November 2024 and July 2025.
He said the pair had jointly devised a “full plan” to advance the group’s objectives, although it had not been carried out.
Founded by a fugitive, the union advocates Hong Kong’s “liberation” from mainland rule, seeks international recognition for a self-proclaimed “Hong Kong Parliament” and calls for the establishment of an army to “restore and defend” the city.
Both defendants had earlier pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit secession.
Judge Lin said the pair had served as advisers within the organisation. Chan was responsible for designing promotional materials, establishing ties with foreign organisations and compiling personal data on police officers and their families.
Open Questions
- Will the sentence be appealed?
