In response to a Taiwan media report of August 7 which mentioned that the Hong Kong Economic, Trade and Cultural Office (Taiwan) (HKETCO) sued a member of the public in Taiwan, thereby impeding his freedom of expression, a spokesman for the HKETCO pointed out today (August 8) that the content of the report deviates from facts and clarified as follows:
 
     The HKETCO received in the afternoon of August 6 a parcel, which included a letter with the issuer's name, a "bloodstained shirt" dyed with red paint, and joss paper used for worshipping. The letter alleged that if the confrontations in Hong Kong would not be resolved quickly, the HKETCO would face the most radical, or even violent and irrational measures. The letter also claimed that hackers had obtained the personal particulars of all staff members of the HKETCO. The letter stated that the HKETCO, after receiving the letter, "should appreciate the severity of the issue in order to protect the personal safety of all staff members of the HKETCO in Taiwan".
 
     Since the content of the letter and the objects concerned carry obvious connotation of threat, we have to make a report to the Taiwan police in order to protect the personal safety of all staff members of the Office. The HKETCO has not initiated any legal proceedings against the individual concerned through the Taiwan police or prosecution authorities. According to our understanding, the Taiwan police are investigating the incident and will follow up in accordance with the laws of Taiwan.
 
     The HKETCO reiterates that it has all along been respecting the freedom of expression of the public. The HKETCO will also continue to convey to the relevant authorities in Hong Kong views expressed to the HKETCO by various sectors in Taiwan on issues relating to Hong Kong.

Ends/Thursday, August 8, 2019
Issued at HKT 22:58

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