47 pro-democracy protesters arrested in Hong Kong, charged with subversion

The protesters, who were previously arrested in January but were later released, were once again arrested under Hong Kong's national security law implemented last June, Washington Examiner reports.

The national security law enforces criminal penalties for four specific crimes: "separatism, subversion of state power, terrorist activities, and collusion with foreign entities." The protesters have been charged with conspiracy to commit subversion of state power.

Police detained them after they were accused of participating in unofficial election primaries for Hong Kong's legislature. The demonstrators were attempting to determine which candidate would be best to win in an election against Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam.

The detained protesters, 39 men and eight women ranging from ages 23 to 64, are expected to appear in court on Monday.

The protesters, if convicted, could face up to life in prison.