Adelaide’s Chinese consulate defaced with “Free HK” graffiti at Joslin property
A graffiti attack on Adelaide’s Chinese consulate is believed to be politically motivated and takes aim at Hong Kong’s new anti-democracy laws, which have seen about 10,000 people arrested.
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Vandals have defaced Adelaide’s Chinese consulate with graffiti in what appears to be a politically motivated attack.
The message “FREE HK” was tagged on several pillars surrounding the Fourth Ave property at Joslin.
It is believed the message means free Hong Kong, and refers to new national security laws that came into effect in the region last month. SA Police are investigating.
Protesters and critics have fiercely rejected the laws, which arm authorities in mainland China with the power to investigate, extradite and punish Hong Kong citizens who allegedly dissent.
Construction to build the northeastern suburbs consulate is still underway while a temporary office operates from Findon.
Consulate spokesman Li Zhang said: “We strongly condemn any acts of damage targeted at the Chinese Diplomatic and Consular missions.”
“We also urge the relevant departments of SA to take earnest measures to strengthen the protection to our Chinese Consular premises and officers,” he said.
The former Drug and Alcohol Services SA centre was listed for sale by Renewal SA in 2016 before it was purchased by the Chinese consulate-general to be used for offices and accommodation.
At the time, the sprawling 5600sq m site was said to be worth about $5 million.
Overseas, heated, wide-scale protests have raged in Hong Kong since midway through last year.
The implementation of the anti-democracy laws have effectively deemed demonstrations a threat to Hong Kong’s national security. About 10,000 protesters have been arrested.
The laws were introduced on July 1 – a symbolic date for the region – marking the 23rd anniversary of the date Hong Kong’s sovereignty was returned from the United Kingdom to China.
Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.