Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has raised concerns with China over anonymous letters offering a reward for information on the whereabouts of an Australian citizen and Hong Kong pro-democracy activist, Kevin Yam. The letters, mailed from Hong Kong, offered 1 million Hong Kong dollars for information on Yam, who is wanted by Hong Kong authorities for organizing anti-government protests in 2019. Wong stated that the Australian government does not accept interference from other governments that make citizens feel unsafe.
While there is no evidence linking Beijing or Hong Kong to the letters, Wong has raised the issue with both entities. Yam, who returned to Australia in 2022 after the 2019 crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, is one of eight activists wanted by Hong Kong under new laws granting the government extensive powers. Despite the threats, Yam has stated that he will continue living in Australia and will not return voluntarily to Hong Kong until it is free.
The Chinese Embassy in Canberra and the Hong Kong government have not responded to requests for comment on the issue. Wong emphasized that the Australian government will await the results of any investigation but has reiterated her concerns about Australians being targeted by foreign authorities. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between Australia and China over issues related to human rights and political freedoms.
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