'Paralegal helped 12 HKers flee by speedboat'

The national security trial of Apple Daily founder Jimmy Lai on Thursday was told that paralegal Chan Tsz-wah made arrangements for 12 Hong Kong people to try to flee to Taiwan by speedboat in August 2020. Andy Li, the fourth prosecution witness and one of the 12 who attempted to flee, said Chan helped prepare for a safe house in Tseung Kwan O and liaise with a boatman. Li said he was arrested for alleged national security violations on August 10, 2020 and granted bail two days later. Under cross-examination by the defence lawyer, Li said he contacted Chan after he was freed on bail, who told him he would arrange for Li to leave Hong Kong. Li said he later received messages on the arrangements, such as moving into a safe house at LOHAS Park and heading to Po Toi O Pier in Sai Kung to board the speedboat. He also said he was told his personal information had been given to authorities in Taiwan, and that he should surrender upon his arrival. The boat was intercepted by Guangdong authorities and all 12 on board were arrested. Chan also serves as a prosecution witness and will testify later in the trial. Lai has denied three conspiracy charges relating to collusion with foreign forces and sedition. The trial continues.