Hong Kong 'Occupy' protest leaders found guilty for role in mass rallies

A Hong Kong court on Tuesday found three leaders of the 2014 pro-democracy “Occupy” civil disobedience movement guilty of conspiracy to commit public nuisance for their role in mass protests that brought parts of the Chinese-ruled city to a standstill.

Benny Tai, Chan Kin-man and retired pastor Chu Yiu-ming were all found guilty following a trial that comes as the financial centre’s civil liberties come under mounting pressure.

They could be jailed for up to seven years for their part in the "Umbrella" protests in 2014. Thousands marched demanding the right for Hong Kong to choose its own leader.

"No matter what happens today... we will persist on and do not give up," Mr Tai had told reporters ahead of the verdict.

Mr Tai and Mr Chan were both found guilty of conspiracy to cause public nuisance and inciting others to commit public nuisance, according to local media outlets.

Mr Chu was found guilty of conspiracy to cause public nuisance.

A large crowd gathered outside the court on Thursday in support of the nine activists.

Human rights groups criticised the ruling, with Humans Rights Watch saying the court was "sending a terrible message".