Hong Kong protests: activist Edward Leung released early from prison under special security arrangements
- Leung was jailed for his role in a 2016 riot, and popularised the slogan ‘Liberate Hong Kong; revolution of our times’, used by protesters before Beijing imposed a national security law
- Correctional authorities made special security arrangements ‘at the request of police and in light of the will and safety of the jailed person’
Activist Edward Leung Tin-kei, once the face of Hong Kong’s pro-independence movement, was released from prison early on Wednesday under special – if not unprecedented – security arrangements after serving four years behind bars.
Leung, whose six-year jail term over a 2016 riot was reduced for good behaviour, was ferried from Shek Pik Prison on Lantau Island shortly before 3am in a seven-seater van, escorted by two vehicles. Prison inmates are usually released at around 9am.
A few hours later, at 5.30am, a post on Leung’s Facebook page said he had “peacefully reunited with his family”.
“After a separation that lasted four years, I would treasure my valuable time with my family and return to a normal life with them,” the post said. “With a sincere heart, I thank each and every one for their care and love.”
Leung added that he would observe a supervision order under the law and “stay away from the spotlight”, “stop using my social media” and turn down visits and interview requests from the press.