Hong Kong media entrepreneur Jimmy Lai, who is being detained in a top security prison, met his family briefly during a traditional festival for reunions on Monday.

His wife and youngest son brought biscuits and nuts for 73-year-old Lai, who is being held in Stanley Prison. Monday was the winter solstice, which is a time for family reunions in Hong Kong.

Lai’s daughter accompanied her mother and brother but was unable to see Lai due to a limit on visitor numbers.

The Apple Daily founder was transferred to the maximum security prison from Lai Chi Kok detention center last Friday. He was originally remanded in custody on Dec. 3 on a fraud charge, and his next hearing is set for April 16, 2021.

Last week, while Lai was applying for bail, police charged him with the more serious offence of colluding with foreign countries – a new offence created under the national security law imposed by Beijing in June.

Meanwhile, Apple Daily readers continue to send in a stream of letters expressing support for Lai.

One reader said he thought of Lai’s ordeal during his own family’s reunion meal. He said he hopes the pro-democracy entrepreneur will be set free on bail.

Another reader reminded Lai to take care of himself in custody since the weather was getting cold. She believes religious faith will bring Lai hope, she added.

A nurse and long-time reader of Apple Daily praised Lai for defending free speech. She said she was sure Lai would not give up his fight for justice, and would pass on knowledge about Hong Kong’s continuing political persecution to younger generations.

A reader in Canada wrote to send her good wishes to Lai and his family. She expressed gratitude for Lai’s sacrifices for Hong Kong and said she would pray for him every day.

A Hongkonger living abroad said Hong Kong had deteriorated to an extent beyond his imaginations. The reader said he would continue to support Apple Daily and Lai, wherever he is.

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