PLA Garrison in Hong Kong open barracks to public

To celebrate the 28th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland and the People's Liberation Army (PLA) stationing in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Garrison of the PLA held an open day event on Saturday and Sunday, inviting Hong Kong residents to visit the barracks in Ngong Shuen Chau, Shek Kong, and San Wai.

A grand flag-raising ceremony was held at Ngong Shuen Chau Barracks on Saturday. As the national anthem played, residents and garrison personnel stood at attention, saluted the national flag and sang the national anthem.

"Hearing the national anthem fills me with pride and honor as a Chinese. Only when the country grows stronger and more prosperous can Hong Kong's future shine brighter," said a Hong Kong resident.

In the weapon and equipment exhibition area, residents observed military vehicles, boarded naval vessels, and tried their hands at simulated shooting under the soldiers' guidance.

A helicopter flight demonstration drew large crowds at the Shek Kong Barracks, with pilots expertly performing stunts such as sharp dives and sudden climbs.

This marks the 35th open day held by the garrison, which has received 930,000 visits over the past 28 years.

PLA Garrison in Hong Kong open barracks to public

A Chinese mainland spokesperson has accused the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities of abusing judicial power to silence dissent after Taiwan regional internet influencer Chen Chih-han was indicted.

Zhu Fenglian, spokeswoman for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, spoke at a press briefing on Wednesday in response to a question about the prosecution of Chen, better known as "Guan Zhang" or "gym boss."

The New Taipei district prosecutors alleged on January 8 that Chen, who runs a YouTube channel, knowingly used "inflammatory language" during a livestream despite being aware of the channel's large and diverse audience and the likelihood that his remarks would spread widely, according to media reports.

She said the case exposed political manipulation of the judicial system.

"The DPP authorities is abusing judicial means to intimidate and suppress the Taiwan people who support cross-Strait exchanges, attempting to create 'green terror' and restrict the freedom of the Taiwan public. In essence, this serves the separatist agenda and will inevitably face opposition and rejection," Zhu said.

Mainland spokesperson slams DPP authorities over prosecution of internet celebrity