2 protesters charged in 1st use of Hong Kong's new mask ban

October 07, 2019 10:58

Two protesters were charged on Monday with violating Hong Kong's new ban on wearing masks at rallies, a move likely to add to a backlash that has thrown the semi-autonomous Chinese territory into deeper crisis.

An 18-year-old student and a 38-year-old unemployed woman were the first to be prosecuted under the ban, which came into force Saturday under sweeping emergency powers aimed at quashing violence in the protests for more democratic freedoms.

Detained early on Saturday shortly after the ban took effect, the two were also charged with taking part in unlawful assembly, which carries a heavier penalty of up to five years in jail.

A conviction under the mask ban is punishable by up to a year in prison and a fine. They were both released on bail pending trial.

Photograph: Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters

« Back to LIVE

TOP STORIES

Bidders of Haldiram Snacks Foods seek clarity on ownership of the brand

The prospective bidders of Haldiram Snacks Foods (HSFPL), a leading food firm, have sought clarity on the ownership of the brand as it is currently owned by different family factions. The Delhi and Nagpur families have decided to merge...

'I Have Frequently Faced Ridicule'

Mallika Sherawat, who made her debut in Bollywood in 2003 with Khwahish, has not had a release lately, even though she has been active on social media.

Kapil Dev swings into golf leadership: Takes over PGTI

Kapil is known to be a keen golfer, whose handicap was almost down to scratch at one time.

Nirmalaji May Stick To Fiscal Deficit Target

'Any finality in such matters requires political views. We will review it closer to the full Budget.'

Can Drinking Coffee Cause Acidity?

rediffGURU Shreya Shah answers diet and nutrition-related questions. Ask away!