Hong Kong London ETO Spy Case: Two Sentenced to 8 and 10 Years in Prison

In the case involving the Hong Kong SAR Government’s London Economic and Trade Office (ETO), two male defendants were sentenced to prison on the 18th for charges of spying on prominent pro-democracy dissidents currently residing in the UK, on behalf of Hong Kong and ultimately representing China.

London’s Counter-Terrorism Police Commander Flanagan said they engaged in espionage activities in the UK and targeted individuals who support democratic movements and protest against the Hong Kong and Chinese governments and authorities.

ETO Administrative Manager Yuan Songbiao and former UK border officer Wei Zhiliang were previously found guilty. On the morning of the 18th UK time, their sentencing was handed down at the local Central Criminal Court. Defendant Yuan Songbiao was convicted of “assisting a foreign intelligence service” and sentenced to 8 years in prison; the other defendant, Wei Zhiliang, was also convicted of “assisting a foreign intelligence service” and sentenced to 6 years, and in addition found guilty of misconduct in a public office and sentenced to 4 years, totaling a 10-year prison term.

The 66-year-old Yuan Songbiao and 41-year-old Wei Zhiliang were previously convicted of “assisting a foreign intelligence service”, with Wei also found guilty of misconduct in a public office. Checking records, Yuan Songbiao’s name and details can no longer be found on the Hong Kong government’s telephone directory webpage. In response to inquiries, the Hong Kong government stated that Yuan Songbiao is still currently employed by the London ETO, and that the office would handle staff matters according to established procedures and the relevant employment contract. The authorities would not comment on individual personnel cases. The Hong Kong government reiterated its strong opposition to all false allegations in this case, and that it will continue to refute such false accusations and smears through all possible channels.

The Chinese Embassy in the UK responded, calling the case a political manipulation by the British side, aimed at encouraging anti-China individuals who have fled to Britain. China condemns this and urges the UK to stop smearing China and interfering in Hong Kong affairs.