Classified information regarding an immigration watch list has been leaked out on to the internet in Hong Kong. The incident will be viewed as a huge embarrassment for the city’s authorities whom have recently announced plans for tighter security.

It is thought that the leak resulted as an innocent mistake from a new Immigration Department employee. It is reported that the employee had moved the private data onto a personal computer which was then subsequently accessed externally and distributed online amongst Hong Kong citizens.

The so-called watch list is expected to have around 11,000 names on it, including those of known criminals which may be barred from the city. A recent statement by Hong Kong's immigration department has said that they are still investigating the data breach and that the leak is of great concern.

Hong Kong is currently amide preparations for staging the games Equestrian event following fears of equine disease in Beijing.
News of the leak comes merely days after tougher immigration laws were announced in the run-up to the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The government reported that entry into the country will become stricter, especially for those individuals whom are hoping to attend the Games with the intention of disrupting procedures – this is likely to stretch to campaigners.

This increased security has been criticised by many as being a restriction on Freedom of Speech. Ever since being announced as the host of the Olympics over four years ago, Beijing has come under fire from political activists and demonstrators. The country however argues that it hopes that the new visa controls will influence the ease of coming to the Games.

The recent torch relays have been a particular catalyst for violence and protests, with several foreigners being barred from the country just days ahead of the relays.

According to Global Visas, applying for a Chinese visa is a necessary requirement for almost all foreign nationals wishing to visit the game.



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