Lee's disappearance drew wide attention. The disappearance of all 5 men were speculated to be connected to some upcoming news releases that would have embarrassed the Communist party. Hong Kong citizens, under one-country two-systems, are supposedly to be protected by the Basic Law in that PRC law enforcement cannot operate in the special administrative region (SAR). Most laws in China do not apply. Lee's disappearance was considered a threat to and most importantly the many rights, freedom, and protection promised to Hong Kong citizens often denied in mainland China.