29-1-2024 (BANGKOK) Several officials have revealed that members of a dissident Russian rock band, known for their criticism of the war in Ukraine, are at risk of deportation from Thailand. The band, Bi-2, was apprehended on the resort island of Phuket for working without the necessary permits, according to Reuters reports on Monday.
Concerns have been raised by human rights activists regarding the potential consequences the band members might face if they are returned to Moscow. Bi-2 has been vocal in condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, particularly lead singer Igor Bortnick, who was labelled a “foreign agent” by Russian authorities following his online criticism of President Vladimir Putin.
Seven members of the band were detained at Bangkok’s immigration detention centre following their arrest on January 24 for working without permits, as confirmed by Kriangkrai Ariyaying, the superintendent of Phuket’s Immigration Bureau.
Superintendent Ariyaying noted that deportation to the band’s country of origin is the usual outcome for such cases, but there is some discretion regarding the destination.
Sunai Phasuk, a senior researcher on Thailand for Human Rights Watch, expressed concerns that the band members would face severe prosecution and other risks if sent back to Russia due to their dissident status. He emphasized that the situation serves as a test of Thailand’s commitment to fundamental human rights principles.
Unnamed officials, unauthorized to speak to the media, suggested that the band members could explore alternative destinations if they felt unsafe returning to Russia. Band members with dual citizenship, particularly those from Israel and Australia, where the band was previously based before relocating to Russia in 1999, have the option to choose another country as their origin.
