A London court has reached a historic verdict, finding two men guilty of conducting espionage activities on behalf of Hong Kong and China.
The defendants were accused of targeting pro-democracy dissidents currently residing in the United Kingdom.
Chung Biu Yuen and Chi Leung Wai were convicted of assisting a foreign intelligence service.
Their activities involved conducting surveillance on individuals between December 2023 and May 2024.
Yuen, a retired Hong Kong police officer, worked at the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London.
Wai served as a British immigration officer and a volunteer with the City of London Police.
Prosecutors revealed that the men engaged in shadow policing operations.
These efforts specifically targeted activists like Nathan Law, who faces a bounty issued by Hong Kong authorities.
Wai was found to have misused his position within the UK Border Force to access sensitive government databases.
This allowed the pair to gather private information on foreign nationals living in Britain.
The trial highlighted the growing concerns regarding foreign interference on British soil.
Security officials have previously warned that Chinese agents are actively seeking to influence political activity in Westminster.
The Chinese embassy in London has denied the allegations, characterizing the charges as fabrications.
However, British security ministers have vowed to hold foreign actors accountable for endangering the safety of residents.
The conviction has resonated deeply within the Hong Kong diaspora.
Activists stated that the verdict validates long-standing fears regarding the reach of foreign intelligence services.
A third individual involved in the case was found dead shortly after the initial charges were filed.
Authorities confirmed that his death was not considered suspicious.
This case underscores the complex diplomatic landscape between London and Beijing.
Despite attempts to improve bilateral ties, espionage claims remain a significant stumbling block for both nations.
The defendants now face potential prison sentences of up to 14 years.
A sentencing date will be determined by the court in the coming weeks.
The British government continues to monitor foreign intelligence threats closely.
Officials maintain that protecting the safety of all individuals in the UK remains a top priority.