China defends bounties offered for Hong Kong dissidents abroad

BEIJING (AP) — China has defended controversial cash bounties offered for Hong Kong dissidents who have fled abroad. The rewards have been heavily criticized by foreign governments and human rights groups. Bounties of $128,000 have been offered for information leading to the capture of 13 opposition figures accused of violating the semi-autonomous Chinese city’s sweeping National Security Law. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said China rejected the criticism and that the arrest orders were necessary, justified and “in line with international law and practice.” Without directly mentioning bounties, Mao said foreign support for those on the list was aimed at destabilizing Hong Kong.