A Disturbing Online Message

Last August, a shocking message surfaced within a social media group for Hongkongers in the UK amidst rising tensions for immigrants. Reports of violent rioters, spurred by baseless online claims linking an asylum seeker to a tragic child murder, instigated assaults on hotels housing refugees.

The Sinister List

Among the posts shared was a call from far-right channels identifying new targets, claiming that certain Hongkongers 'all help refugees take resources.' Finn Lau, a chartered surveyor and democracy activist, was horrified as his name and former addresses appeared on the list. This was not just another wave of online hate; Lau suspected a more sinister motive.

Hong Kong Activists Under Fire

At 31, Lau has been a significant figure in Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement, now forced into exile. Many activists, like him, are relentlessly pursued by Beijing, who considers them high-priority threats. With family back home facing intimidation and arrest, the stakes could not be higher.

A Chilling New Tactic

The Guardian, collaborating with the anti-racism group Hope Not Hate, uncovered over 150 posts from various accounts that baited far-right factions into targeting Hong Kong dissidents. Experts in cybersecurity drew parallels to an ongoing campaign suspected to be orchestrated by a Chinese security agency.

Political Repercussions and Warnings

As UK’s Labour leader Keir Starmer attempts to strengthen ties with Beijing, security officials stress the importance of safeguarding national security against foreign threats. Security minister Dan Jarvis affirmed the government’s commitment to deterring foreign meddling.

Incitement to Violence

Several posts directed hostility toward Lau and other activists, even reaching far-right leaders like Tommy Robinson. Posing as ordinary citizens, these accounts incited violence, claiming Hongkongers were diminishing safety in local communities. Shockingly, some messages displayed significant irregularities in language, hinting at foreign links in the campaign.

China's Remote Control of Dissent

This online incitement reflects a broader strategy of transnational repression, with China allegedly employing armies of trolls to manipulate narratives and instill fear among its critics abroad. Reports suggest that oppressive tactics range from psychological intimidation to coercive surveillance.

The Risks for Targeted Activists

When activists received warnings about their personal information being shared online, panic spread throughout the community. Lau explained that past violent encounters have made him hyper-aware of his surroundings and cautious about his privacy. Despite changing residences frequently, the threat remains ever-present.

Call for Action and Protection

The Metropolitan police have noted the incidents but remain noncommittal on protective measures for the targeted individuals. As Lau expressed concerns over the lack of action, he underscored the psychological toll of living under constant threat.

A Grim Reality

For Lau and others, the turmoil is not merely a distant political struggle—it is life or death. With family in Hong Kong still facing repercussions, they remain vigilant, hoping for justice and security in a precarious environment marked by fear and hostility. For these activists, every day is a battle for survival against a regime that won't back down.