NewsWPLG Local 10November 6, 2026Miami-Dade County
Macao court sentences former lawmaker Au Kam San to 12.5 years in first national security trial
Photo: WPLG Local 10
A Macao court sentenced 69-year-old former pro-democracy lawmaker Au Kam San to 12.5 years in prison following a closed-door trial under the region's national security law. He was convicted of subverting state power, breaching confidentiality, and contacting overseas organizations to endanger national security. Family members, defense counsel, and critics denounced the proceeding as a political trial, while government officials defended the ruling as a necessary measure to safeguard national security.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10Why It Matters
The ruling marks the first prosecution under Macao's 2009 , establishing a legal precedent for future security cases in the special administrative region.
Key Facts
- Au Kam San was sentenced to 12.5 years in prison in Macao's first national security case.
- The trial was held behind closed doors after a judge decided against an open proceeding.
- Au was found guilty of subverting state power, breaching confidentiality, and establishing contact with overseas groups.
- The court stated Au helped overseas organizations spread false information between 2023 and 2024 to induce foreign hostility and undermine the 2024 city leader election.
- Au was convicted of leaking confidential information obtained during closed-door committee meetings regarding gaming license renewals while serving as a lawmaker in 2021.
- Au served as a pro-democracy lawmaker in Macao's legislature for 20 years before stepping down in 2021.
- Au's family and international counsel criticized the proceedings as a political trial and groundless persecution.
- Macao government officials and Beijing's Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office expressed support for the ruling and emphasized the region's resolve in safeguarding national security.
Who's Mentioned
OrganizationWynn Resorts“American gaming company operating resorts in Macao.”PersonAu Kam San“Former pro-democracy lawmaker sentenced to 12.5 years in prison.”locationChina“Central government authority governing Macao.”locationMacao“Special administrative region of China where the trial took place.”locationPortugal“Country of citizenship for Au Kam San.”OrganizationMGM Resorts“American gaming company operating resorts in Macao.”locationHong Kong“Neighboring special administrative region.”OrganizationLas Vegas Sands“American gaming company operating resorts in Macao.”PersonMichael Polak“International counsel for Au Kam San.”PersonJorge Menezes“Portuguese lawyer practicing in Macao commenting on the trial.”PersonAu Hon I“Daughter of Au Kam San based in London.”PersonVirginia Cheang“Wife of Au Kam San who wrote a public letter criticizing the trial.”