The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today strongly condemned certain media, including Agence France-Presse, for their fact-twisting reports concerning the case under the National Security Law involving Lai Chee-ying, as well as the treatment provided by the Government during his detention.

In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government said the reports seek to smear Hong Kong by misleading the public into believing that the custodial and medical arrangements for Lai Chee-ying have been poor, adding that their despicable intent to vilify the city’s rule of law is blatant and violates the professional conduct of journalists.

"The Correctional Services Department (CSD) and relevant units handle the custodial arrangements for Lai Chee-ying in the same way as other persons-in-custody (PICs). His legal representatives have also made it clear that he has all along been receiving appropriate treatment and care in prison.

“The false reports by relevant media have no factual basis at all. In fact, the CSD attaches great importance to the safety and health of PICs. Regardless of the identities, ages and nationalities of PICs, the CSD is committed to ensuring that the custodial environment is secure, safe, humane, appropriate and healthy, which includes good ventilation, appropriate and timely medical support, as well as religious services.

“The CSD also provides PICs with healthy food in accordance with legal requirements, which are in line with existing international health guidelines. The CSD has also put in place an established mechanism, including regular independent visitors, namely Justices of the Peace, who inspect the prisons to ensure the rights of PICs are protected.”

The Hong Kong SAR Government emphasised that as the legal proceedings involving Lai Chee-ying are still ongoing, it is inappropriate to comment on the case in an attempt to interfere with the court to exercise judicial power independently, which might otherwise constitute perverting the course of justice.

Nevertheless, relevant media continue to distort the facts, blatantly smear Lai Chee-ying's detention conditions and medical arrangements, and attempt to exert pressure on the courts, the statement said, noting that such acts must be sternly denounced to set the record straight.