Hong Kong activist Howard Lam’s online search history ‘irrelevant’ and ‘prejudiced evidence’, defence says as prosecutors drop detail
- Two internet links showed accused viewed Wikipedia page on chloroform and news of body-in-cement murder case
- He was earlier said to have made plans and done his research before announcing kidnap-torture saga
Hong Kong prosecutors have withdrawn evidence centred on the online search history of democracy activist Howard Lam Tsz-kin, on trial for faking his kidnap and torture, after the defence raised concerns of potential prejudice.
Prosecutor Ken Ng Kin-man on Tuesday announced that he would not use the information against Lam, following complaints that it was irrelevant.
Ng argued last week that the search history suggested Lam, 42, had prior knowledge and planning before he announced he was kidnapped, drugged and tortured with staples punched into his thighs on August 10, 2017.
The accusation prompted an exclamation by Lam, who clapped his hands in a show of sarcasm at the back of the court.
The Democratic Party activist had denied one count of knowingly making to police a false report of commission of an offence.
On August 11, 2017, Lam had gone public with his abduction claim mere hours after the alleged incident, when his party called an urgent press conference.