The Hong Kong Police Crime Unit has taken on the investigation of harassment and intimidation against journalists, according to the Hong Kong Journalists Association. The Chairperson, Selina Cheng, reported incidents targeting her family members and the HKJA executive committee members. This comes after 15 journalists, including those from Hong Kong Free Press and InMedia, were subjected to defamatory emails and letters since June.
Anonymous complaints were sent to family members, landlords, employers, and organizations associated with the targeted journalists, with some threats related to breaching national security laws. HKFP’s Director, Tom Grundy, also filed a police report after receiving defamatory letters demanding his eviction.
The HKJA highlighted hateful content on private Facebook groups targeting media outlets and journalists, with at least 36 journalists named and their photos shared. Commissioner of Police Raymond Siu urged those facing harassment to report to the police, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law in Hong Kong.
The decline in press freedom in Hong Kong has been evident, with arrests of journalists, newsroom raids, and the closure of several media outlets. Over 1,000 journalists have lost their jobs, leading to many emigrating. The government-funded broadcaster RTHK has also undergone significant changes, including new editorial guidelines and the removal of news and satirical shows.
Despite Chief Executive John Lee’s stance on press freedom being subject to the law, government departments have been hesitant to engage with the media. The situation underscores the challenges faced by journalists in Hong Kong and the broader implications for press freedom under the national security law.
As a Senior Reporter at Hong Kong Free Press, Kelly Ho has extensively covered political developments, human rights issues, and the impact of the national security law. With a background in journalism and politics, her work sheds light on the evolving landscape of media freedom in Hong Kong. Prior to her current role, Kelly reported on the citywide unrest in 2019, showcasing a commitment to covering critical issues facing Hong Kong.
