BANGKOK, Feb 28 (TNA) – Thailand defended its repatriation of 40 Uyghur men to China after more than a decade in detention, asserting the move adhered to international standards and domestic laws.

Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and other officials emphasized the repatriation followed a formal Chinese request, with assurances of humane treatment and livelihood support. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong pledged to monitor the situation in China personally.

Officials clarified the decision stemmed from a decade-long lack of third-country resettlement options and claimed the Uyghurs consented to return. Immigration officials confirmed they were fully informed of the process. National Security Council Secretary-General Chatchai Bangchuad, speaking from Xinjiang, reported witnessing their arrival and care, with medical examinations showing no mistreatment.

However, the repatriation sparked criticism from human rights groups, Thai lawmakers, and the UN. Rangsiman Rome, a parliamentary committee chair, announced plans to summon government officials for questioning. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, called the repatriation a violation of international law, demanding China disclose the Uyghurs’ whereabouts and ensure their rights.

Despite the controversy, Thai officials maintained the repatriation was lawful and in the best interest of the individuals involved, prioritizing their return to families and homelands. They reinforced their commitment to monitoring the situation and ensuring the Uyghurs’ safety and well-being in China.

Currently, there are currently five Uyghur detainees still imprisoned in Thai jails. This is due to their attempts to escape from detention, for which the court has sentenced them to seven years in prison, with their release scheduled for the year 2029. Upon their release, they will undergo the same repatriation process. -819 (TNA)