Hong Kong protesters urge govt. not to extradite US 'snoopgate' whistleblower Snowden

Protestors in Hong Kong have urged the country's government not to extradite National Security Agency (NSA)'s contractor Edward Snowden, who blew the lid on America's internet spying programme popularly known as PRISM.

The demonstrators also protested to pressurize their government on forcing the US into changing its surveillance policies, as Snowden had alleged that the US hacked several targets in Hong Kong and mainland China, the Guardian reports.

According to the report, the protest took place only hours before the Hong Kong's chief executive, CY Leung assured the public that he will follow up on incidents related to privacy violation of individuals or institutions.

Leung had also said that the government will handle Snowden's case 'according to the laws and established procedures of Hong Kong.'

The rally was arranged by some human rights groups after Snowden, who is a US citizen, said that he planned to stay in the territory and 'ask the courts and people of Hong Kong to decide his fate'. Supporters said that they were concerned that Beijing may intervene in the decision and were worried that Snowden might not be treated well if he is sent back to the US.