Hong Kong – October 27, 2025 – A Hong Kong court has handed down significant prison sentences to three men convicted over multiple bomb plots in 2019 and 2020, highlighting ongoing concerns about public safety and security in the city.

Lukas Ho, 41, received the longest sentence: 18 years in prison. Judge Johnny Chan cited Ho’s “inflated ego” and lack of remorse as major factors, warning that he posed a continued risk to the public. Ho was identified as the mastermind behind the plots, which included a homemade bomb detonated in a hospital toilet in January 2020 and additional explosive devices discovered at a local railway station the following month. Fortunately, neither incident resulted in casualties.

Co-Defendants Receive Prison Terms

Ho’s co-defendants, Lee Ka-pan and Cheung Ka-Chun, were each sentenced to 16 years and eight months in prison. The court noted that both men were first-time offenders, granting a four-month reduction for each. During sentencing, all three men remained impassive, reportedly smiling to friends and family as they were escorted from the courtroom.

Judge Chan emphasized the importance of deterrence over rehabilitation, stating:

“The court must provide sufficient deterrence, so the need for defendant’s rehabilitation is less important than the former point. Also, if remorse is limited or superficial, there’s no way to talk about rehabilitation and correction.”

Background of the Bomb Plots

The court heard that the bomb plots were intended to exert pressure on authorities during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to force Hong Kong to shut its borders amid rising infections in neighboring mainland China. In addition to the hospital incident, explosive devices were discovered at a railway station, prompting a major law enforcement response.

The trial also involved several other defendants; however, a jury acquitted five individuals last month in connection with the same case.

Public Safety Implications

The sentences send a strong message regarding Hong Kong’s zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and public safety violations. Legal experts noted that the court’s focus on deterrence reflects ongoing concerns about ensuring security in sensitive locations such as hospitals and transport hubs.

The case also underscores the judiciary’s careful consideration of remorse, prior criminal history, and the severity of planned acts when determining prison terms in cases involving public safety threats.