Were the Hong Kong bomb plots linked to terrorism charges?

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Hong Kong Men Sentenced for Bomb Plots Aimed at Border Closure, Acquitted of Terrorism Charges

Three men in Hong Kong have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms for their involvement in plotting bomb attacks intended to pressure the government into early border closures during the Covid-19 pandemic. While convicted of conspiracy to cause an explosion, they were acquitted of more serious terrorism charges. The incidents involved a homemade bomb detonated in a hospital toilet and explosive devices found at a railway station, neither of which resulted in casualties.
Bomb Plots Aimed at Forcing Border Closures

The court heard that the plots were part of a concerted effort to compel Hong Kong authorities to shut the city's borders at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. This action was motivated by concerns over the virus's spread from neighbouring mainland China. The incidents for which the men were convicted include a homemade bomb that exploded in a hospital toilet in January 2020 and explosive devices discovered at a railway station the following month.
Acquittal on Terrorism Charges

Despite the nature of the plots, the three men were ultimately acquitted of more severe terrorism charges. They were found guilty of conspiracy to cause an explosion, an offense that carries a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment. This distinction indicates that while the acts were deemed dangerous and criminal, they did not meet the legal threshold for terrorism as defined in this specific case.
Significant Prison Sentences Handed Down

The sentencing reflected the gravity of the conspiracy charges. Lukas Ho, 41, received the longest sentence of 18 years imprisonment. Judge Johnny Chan cited Ho's "inflated ego," lack of remorse, and the resulting "risk to public safety" as factors influencing the decision. Ho's co-defendants, Lee Ka-pan and Cheung Ka-chun, were each sentenced to 16 years and eight months in jail.
Additional Bomb Plot Foiled

In addition to the two incidents that led to convictions, the group was also linked to a third bomb plot. Prosecutors indicated that this foiled plan would have constituted an "indiscriminate attack" had it not been intercepted by the police. This additional plot further underscores the extent of the group's alleged intentions during the early stages of the pandemic.

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Were the Hong Kong bomb plots linked to terrorism charges?

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