Breaking News: Hong Kong Tycoon Jimmy Lai Convicted in Landmark National Security Case

Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigner and media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been found guilty of colluding with foreign forces under the city's national security law. The 78-year-old Lai, who has been in jail since December 2020, pleaded not guilty to the charges. He faces life in prison and is expected to be sentenced early next year.

The court found that Lai used his now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper to lobby foreign governments to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and China. Hong Kong's chief executive John Lee welcomed the verdict, stating that Lai's actions damaged the country's interests and the welfare of Hong Kongers.

Lai's conviction marks a significant development in the ongoing crackdown on dissent in Hong Kong. The national security law, which Beijing defends as essential for the city's stability, has been criticized by rights groups for being used to silence opposition voices.

The trial has sparked widespread concern over the erosion of press freedom and the suppression of dissent in Hong Kong. Lai's lawyers have vowed to appeal the verdict, but for now, the 78-year-old media tycoon faces a potentially life-changing sentence.

This is a developing story, with further details and reactions expected in the coming hours and days. We will provide updates as more information becomes available.