A number of pro-democracy activists reported on Thursday that they have been told by the police they will be charged with unauthorised assembly for allegedly participating in a June 4 vigil in Victoria Park.

The annual large-scale commemorative event was banned this year by the authorities, who cited restrictions on public gatherings put in place to stop the spread of Covid-19.

Former leader of the now-disbanded Demosisto group Joshua Wong, lawmakers Chu Hoi-dick and Wu Chi-wai, district councillor Lester Shum, Civil Human Rights Front vice-convenor Figo Chan and former student leader Sunny Cheung are among those who have received calls from the police regarding the charges.

Others told they are facing the charge include former lawmakers Cyd Ho and Leung Kwok-hung.

Shum said the move shows the police can't even tolerate a totally peaceful gathering, and the charges are an attempt to harass and intimidate them.

"Upon charging us, the Department of Justice can demand or request the judge or courts to confiscate our passports or limit our freedom to leave Hong Kong," he said.

"I think this is what the Beijing government wants. It wants to limit the freedom of movement of Hong Kong activists to [stop them] speaking about the situation in Hong Kong with the international community."

Thirteen pro-democracy figures, including members of the vigil's organiser, were already facing incitement charges over the event.
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Last updated: 2020-08-06 HKT 21:42