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Jimmy Lai Chee‑ying

Jimmy Lai Chee‑ying

Imprisoned media tycoon and founder of Apple Daily

Appears in 2 stories

Notable Quotes

Lai has described his prosecution as a “litmus test” for Hong Kong’s legal system under the National Security Law.

Judges stated they were "satisfied that [Lai] was the mastermind of the conspiracies" and cited his meetings with U.S. officials as evidence of collusion.

"I will stay here and fight to the end. I am prepared for prison." — Shortly after the National Security Law passed

Stories

Hong Kong’s Wang Fuk court fire: disaster, demands for accountability, and a national security clampdown

Built World

Convicted on national security charges, awaiting sentencing; faces possible life imprisonment

On November 26, 2025, a fire engulfed the Wang Fuk Court public housing complex in Tai Po, Hong Kong, killing at least 159 people and injuring dozens more. It was the city's deadliest disaster since 1948.

Updated 6 days ago

Hong Kong's national security crackdown

Rule Changes

Sentenced to 20 years in prison

When Britain returned Hong Kong to China in 1997, Beijing promised the city could keep its free press, independent courts, and civil liberties for 50 years. That guarantee lasted 23 years. On February 9, 2026—two weeks ago—a Hong Kong court sentenced 78-year-old media tycoon Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison, the longest punishment ever imposed under the National Security Law that Beijing enacted in June 2020 to silence dissent. China followed on February 10 with a white paper celebrating Hong Kong's national security achievements.

Updated Feb 26