The former leader of a student group that called for Hong Kong independence was arrested on Wednesday evening on suspicion of inciting secession, the group said on social media.

Studentlocalism, which announced last month that it was ceasing its activities in Hong Kong in light of the national security law, said its former leader Tony Chung,19, had been detained by national security officers.

The group said agents were seen carrying several bags of items they had seized as evidence from Chung's home in Yuen Long.

Meanwhile, reports said police were also raiding the Sha Tin home of another former member of the group, Ho Nok-hang.

In footage shared online, a plainclothes officer identifies himself as a member of the new national security unit before Chung is escorted to a waiting vehicle with his hands tied behind his back.

A police source confirmed Chung had been arrested and the force announced that a media briefing would be held later in the evening.

It is believed to be the first time that officers from the police force's new national security department have made an arrest under the legislation.

On June 30, the day before the national security law came into effect, Studentlocalism said it was ending its activities in Hong Kong, but members would continue their work overseas.

Recent posts on the group's social media pages have continued to include calls for self-determination for the Hong Kong people, as well as Hong Kong independence.

______________________________
Last updated: 2020-07-29 HKT 22:16