Two men have been handed prison sentences in Britain after being found guilty of conducting espionage activities connected to China. Authorities said the pair gathered information on pro-democracy campaigners living in the UK and acted on behalf of interests linked to Hong Kong and China.
The case marks one of the most significant espionage prosecutions in recent British history and highlights growing concerns over foreign interference inside the country.
Former Border Force Officer Among Those Convicted
Chung Biu “Bill” Yuen, 66, and Chi Leung “Peter” Wai, 41, were convicted of assisting a foreign intelligence service. Investigators said they carried out surveillance operations between December 2023 and May 2024.
Wai, who worked for the UK Border Force, was also found guilty of abusing his access to government systems to obtain sensitive information related to individuals under surveillance.
Both men, who hold British and Chinese citizenship, denied the accusations throughout the proceedings.
Prison Sentences Handed Down
A London court sentenced Wai to 10 years in prison, while Yuen received an eight-year sentence.
During sentencing, the judge warned that modern espionage extends beyond stealing state secrets and increasingly includes monitoring, gathering information on dissidents, and intimidating individuals who seek protection in democratic countries.
Officials described the operation as deeply disturbing, noting that those targeted were supporters of democracy and critics of the authorities in Hong Kong and China.
Growing Concerns Over Foreign Interference
Security officials said the case demonstrates the evolving nature of international espionage and the challenges posed by covert foreign influence.
British authorities have emphasized their commitment to countering hostile activities conducted by foreign actors and protecting people living in the country from intimidation and surveillance.
The Chinese Embassy in London rejected the allegations and described the case as politically motivated.
