Around 350 Uyghurs, fleeing persecution in China during 2013 and 2014, find themselves trapped in a grim reality within the confines of the Immigration Detention Centre (IDC) in central Bangkok. These individuals, who embarked on a journey filled with hope, now endure harsh conditions, with many suffering from skin ailments due to poor ventilation and contaminated water. The Thai authorities have provided no clear timeline for their detention, leaving them in a state of perpetual uncertainty.
The IDC, known for housing individuals charged with immigration violations, has become a "hell on earth" for the Uyghurs, as described by human rights defenders. Despite their plight, the Thai government faces mounting pressure from China to prevent these individuals from reuniting with their families in Turkey. This diplomatic tension has left the Uyghurs in limbo, fearing deportation to China, where they risk imprisonment and further punishment for their families.
"We were all happy, and full of hope," – Hassan
Five Uyghurs have already died in custody, highlighting the dire conditions they face. Two Uyghur men charged with a bombing have been languishing in an unfinished trial for nine years. Despite assurances from the Thai government that there are no immediate plans to send the Uyghurs back to China, the fear of deportation looms large over the detainees, casting a shadow over their lives.
"It was horrible. We were so scared all the time," – Niluper
The Thai government has faced accusations of deporting Uyghurs back to China, where they face imprisonment and persecution. The detainees live in constant fear and pain, grappling with trauma from their prolonged detention. Many express deep concerns about the impact of their uncertain future on their families.
"When we thought about being sent back to China, we would have preferred to die in Thailand." – Niluper
"I don't know how to explain this to my sons," – Niluper
The United Nations Refugee Agency has also come under scrutiny for its perceived lack of action to assist the Uyghurs. Accusations of insufficient access and support have been leveled against the agency, leaving many Uyghurs feeling abandoned by the international community.
"I don't know how to digest this. I'm living in constant pain, constant fear that at any moment I may get the news from Thailand that my husband has been deported." – Niluper
In the midst of this ongoing humanitarian crisis, voices like Hasan Imam's resonate with a haunting reminder of lost connections and enduring hope.
"I have not heard my mother's voice for 10 years," – Hasan Imam
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