Hong Kong authorities have arrested four individuals, including the owner and three staff members of “One Punch Bookstore,” on suspicion of selling publications deemed to incite subversion. The arrests, which took place on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, signal a continued crackdown on pro-democracy materials in the region.
The bookstore’s owner, Pong Yim-ming, and the three employees are accused of offering for sale books that authorities believe violate national security laws. Among the publications reportedly sold was a biography of pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong, according to multiple reports from Hong Kong news outlets.
National security police carried out the operation, detaining the individuals on suspicion of violating the national security law, specifically related to inciting subversion through the sale of books. The case underscores the tightening control over freedom of expression in Hong Kong following the implementation of the national security law in 2020.
According to 信報網站, the bookstore is known for its collection of politically sensitive titles.
The arrests approach as Hong Kong authorities continue to pursue cases related to the 2019 pro-democracy protests and the subsequent imposition of the national security law. The move highlights the ongoing tensions between Beijing and those advocating for greater political freedoms in the city.
香港文匯網 reported that the police operation targeted publications suspected of inciting sedition.
星島頭條 also confirmed the arrests, stating that the individuals are being held by the national security police.
