- विज्ञापन -
Bangkok: Thailand deported 40 individuals identified as “illegal immigrants,” amid concerns raised by human rights activists and a Thai news outlet regarding the potential deportation of Uyghurs who have been detained in the country for over a decade. The group mainly consists of members of the Uyghur minority from China’s Xinjiang region, who have been held in Thailand’s Immigration Detention Center since 2014 after attempting to escape Chinese oppression.
Reports from a human rights organization indicated that Thai officials were preparing to deport these detainees as of early January, although Thai authorities denied any intention to return them to China. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian stated that the repatriation was conducted in accordance with the laws of China and Thailand, as well as international practices, emphasizing the protection of the individuals’ welfare.
While Lin did not specifically label those deported as Uyghurs, he mentioned that Chinese media portrayed them as victims of criminal organizations. The specifics of the Uyghur situation remain ambiguous, and Thai officials have not confirmed or denied any related deportations.
The US State Department’s spokesperson expressed apprehension regarding the reports of imminent deportations, urging Thailand to uphold the principle of non-refoulement, which prevents returning individuals to countries where they may face torture or mistreatment.
Opposition lawmaker Kannavee Suebsang called for clarity from the government, questioning what actions are being taken and stressing the need to protect Uyghurs from potential persecution after their long detention. Human Rights Watch echoed these concerns, noting significant communication difficulties with the detained Uyghurs and highlighting an unusual lack of responses from Thai officials at all levels regarding the situation.
