According to BBC, Jimmy Lai, a British passport holder, is considered one of the most prominent individuals tried under the National Security Law. The court emphasized that Lai's actions related to collusion with foreign forces were "meticulously planned" and "premeditated," and that the crimes fell into the category of "extremely serious."
The court also noted that the 20-year prison sentence was aggravated because Lai was the "principal initiator" and "driving force" behind the crimes. Lai, the founder of the now-closed Apple Daily newspaper, has denied all charges against him.
While Lai's family, 78, has expressed concern about his deteriorating health in prison, Hong Kong and Chinese officials have stated that the prisoner's condition is good and his rights are fully protected.
