Members of the Russian-Belarusian rock band Bi-2 have been detained in Thailand, sparking international concern over potential deportation to Russia where they face persecution for their criticism of President Vladimir Putin and the war in Ukraine. The band, known for their anti-war stance, was reportedly taken into custody on orders from Russia’s Foreign Ministry after an allegedly unauthorized concert in Phuket—a claim the band disputes.
Despite intending to leave for Israel, their departure was abruptly canceled following intervention by “high-ranking diplomats from the Russian Embassy,” according to the band’s statement. Now, they remain in a Bangkok immigration detention center, sharing a cell with 80 others, awaiting their uncertain fate.
The group’s members hold various citizenships, with four also being Israeli citizens, while two others have Australian and American citizenship. Human Rights Watch has made a clear statement regarding their detention: “Under no circumstances should they be deported to Russia, where they could face arrest or worse for their outspoken criticisms of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russia’s war in Ukraine.”
Yegor Bortnik, the band’s lead singer known as Lyova Bi-2, was branded a “foreign agent” by Russia’s Foreign Ministry last year after he condemned Putin and the war in Ukraine. This designation adds to the gravity of their possible deportation to Russia, as they could face grave consequences for their outspokenness.
Russian officials have not remained silent on the issue. Andrei Lugovoi, a Russian lawmaker, has publicly vilified the group, calling them “scum” and stating that Moscow eagerly awaits their deportation. His chilling message on Telegram hinted at the bleak prospects awaiting the band should they return to Russia.
The band’s plight has illuminated the broader issue of transnational repression, where Russian authorities have targeted activists and government critics beyond their borders with violence and other unlawful actions. This case stands as a stark reminder of the Kremlin’s reach and the dangers faced by dissidents, even on foreign soil.
The Thai government is bound by the United Nations Convention against Torture and domestic law not to return individuals to countries where they could face torture or other inhumane treatment. With the band’s legal status still in limbo, the international community watches closely, hoping Thailand will uphold its legal obligations and allow the band members to travel safely to their respective countries.
Relevant articles:
– Kremlin Now Going After Famed Anti-Putin Rockers—in Thailand
– Rock band critical of Putin is detained in Thailand, fearful of deportation to Russia, The Associated Press, Tue, 30 Jan 2024 18:42:00 GMT
– Thailand: Don’t Return Rock Band Members to Russia, Human Rights Watch, Mon, 29 Jan 2024 23:30:00 GMT
– 2 Faces Deportation in Thailand, The Moscow Times, Tue, 30 Jan 2024 09:03:00 GMT