World

Hong Kong 'Umbrella' protesters sentenced to jail terms

April 25, 2019 5:15 am

Four Hong Kong activists have been sentenced to up to 16 months in prison for their role in pro-democracy demonstrations.

Four others received suspended sentences on Wednesday, while one had their sentencing deferred until June.

The nine activists were found guilty earlier this month over their involvement in the “Umbrella Movement”.

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Demonstrators paralysed Hong Kong in 2014 when they demanded the right for the territory to pick its leaders.

Judge Johnny Chan handed down the sentences at the West Kowloon Magistrates Court on Wednesday morning, citing the “excessive inconvenience and suffering” the movement caused.

Sociology professor Chan Kin-man, 60, and law professor Benny Tai, 54, who helped set up the Occupy Central group both received 16-month prison sentences.