Authorities in Hong Kong have returned passports to eight individuals initially arrested in the 2021 case involving 47 pro-democracy activists. These eight were ultimately not charged with subversion under the national security law. Among those receiving their passports back are former Democratic Party lawmakers James To and Roy Kwong, alongside ex-healthcare sector representative Joseph Lee. The return of travel documents comes over five years after their initial detention, marking a significant, yet limited, development in the high-profile case. While the reasons for the decision remain unclear, it suggests these individuals are no longer considered a threat by the authorities. Most of the 47 defendants remain in custody, with many facing trial or already sentenced to imprisonment. The case has drawn international condemnation for its impact on political freedoms in Hong Kong.