Push To Extradite Edward Snowden From Hong Kong Could Take YEARS As Mainland China Officials Wade In

*Hong Kong Police Commissioner: The case will be dealt with according to the law

*It is not known if the U.S. government has made a formal extradition request to Hong Kong

*Hong Kong legislators have said that the Chinese government should make final decision on extradition

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 10:06 EST, 22 June 2013 | UPDATED: 15:49 EST, 22 June 2013

It could take years to extradite NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden from Hong Kong to the USA on charges of espionage and according to legal experts, the move would likely be blocked by China.

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While espionage and theft of state secrets are not cited specifically in the treaty, charged could be brought against Snowden under Hong Kong's official secrets ordinance.

Many Americans have been sent back for trial under the treaty but such extraditions can often take between three to five years.

However, it would also require the Hong Kong authorities to charge Snowden with a similar crime otherwise the extradition process could not begin and Snowden would theoretically be free to leave the city. Snowden could claim political asylum in Hong Kong, arguing he would face torture back home.

In general, the extradition agreement between the U.S. and Hong Kong excepts political offenses from the obligation to turn over a person.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2346404/Snowden-extradition-set-years-mainland-China-officials-wade-in.html#ixzz2WzCpS0Ou

Find a good seat, this party is just getting started, imo