Security Bureau Launches Special Rehabilitation Programme

Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung announced details of the government’s “Special Rehabilitation Programme” (特別更生計劃), aimed at individuals arrested during the 2019 anti-extradition bill protests but who have not yet been prosecuted.

Under the programme, participants will be given opportunities to visit the mainland to better understand the country, along with employment support and rehabilitation assistance. In return, those who complete the programme will not be prosecuted, provided they demonstrate genuine remorse and a positive attitude.

Tang stressed that the programme has no底线 (no bottom line). Any person who has been arrested but not charged — regardless of the seriousness of the alleged offence — may participate, as long as it is permitted under the law. This includes individuals suspected of offences such as unlawful assembly or rioting.

He explained that there is no fixed quota or hard indicator for granting immunity from prosecution. The decision will be based on each participant’s attitude and level of remorse. Once a participant reaches a certain stage, they will be informed that they have a chance for rehabilitation.

The programme was previously kept low-profile to protect participants from doxxing and harassment. Now that it has a solid foundation and involves people from various sectors (not only the entertainment industry), the government has decided it is an appropriate time to make it more widely known.

Singer Hins Cheung (張敬軒) has already publicly confirmed his participation as a mentor. Tang revealed that individuals from other sectors are also taking part to avoid any labelling effect.

In response to suggestions from some legislators to “seal” minor criminal records from the protest period, Tang said there is no need to amend existing laws. He pointed out that the existing Rehabilitation of Offenders Ordinance already allows people sentenced to imprisonment of three months or less to have their records “spent” after three years.

The Security Bureau hopes the programme will provide a second chance for those willing to turn over a new leaf while upholding the principle that those who break the law must bear legal responsibility.

The announcement comes as nearly 97% of cases related to the 2019 protests have been dealt with.