The U.S. Embassy in Thailand warned Americans of possible violent retaliatory attacks after Thai authorities deported 45 Uyghurs to China, a move criticized by Secretary of State Marco Rubio due to concerns over human rights violations and the treatment of the deportees. Past deportations have led to violent incidents, prompting the Embassy to advise increased caution among Americans in Thailand.

The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok issued a warning to American citizens regarding the possibility of “violent retaliatory attacks” following the deportation of 45 Uyghurs from Thailand to China. This action has drawn condemnation from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who expressed grave concern over the treatment of the Uyghurs, who had been detained for over a decade. Thai authorities stated that the deportees were assured they would not face penalties or harm upon their return, claiming the men voluntarily agreed to repatriation after reviewing a translation of a Chinese agreement.

The Embassy noted that similar deportations in the past, particularly a 2015 incident, have resulted in violent incidents, including a bombing that claimed 20 lives at the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok. In light of this, Americans residing or traveling in Thailand are urged to exercise heightened caution, especially in crowded tourist areas where the risk of collateral damage may increase.

Secretary Rubio criticized the deportation as a violation of both Thailand’s international obligations and its tradition of protecting vulnerable individuals. He emphasized that sending Uyghurs back to China, where they face persecution, lack of due process, and potential human rights abuses is deeply troubling. Rubio urged nations harboring Uyghurs to refrain from forced repatriation and called on China to facilitate regular checks on the well-being of the deported individuals.

Reports indicate that Thai lawmakers, activists, and attorneys had raised concerns prior to the deportation, which took place under the cover of night. Subsequently, detainees were transported to Don Mueang airport where they were boarded on a flight to Xinjiang, China’s Uyghur region. The Chinese Embassy confirmed the return of 40 nationals who had allegedly entered Thailand illegally, after being held for over ten years under complex international circumstances.

In summary, the U.S. Embassy has alerted Americans in Thailand of potential risks following the deportation of Uyghurs to China, which conceivably mirrors past incidents that led to violence. Secretary Rubio has denounced this action for its implications on human rights, urging caution and intervention from global authorities to safeguard the rights of the Uyghurs. The situation remains tense, reflecting significant geopolitical and humanitarian concerns.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com

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