Members of a Russian-Belarusian rock band are still in a Bangkok prison following their arrest while performing in Phuket.
Authorities arrested members of the Bi-2 band, who have spoken against President Vladimir Putin and his involvement in the Ukrainian conflict, following their concert in Phuket last week. Human Rights Watch has warned of the dangers they could face if sent back to Russia, citing statements from a Kremlin spokesperson accusing the band of supporting terrorism.
In a recent update on the band's official Telegram channel, it was revealed that singer Egor Bortnik, also known as Lyova, has left Thailand for Israel, leaving the rest of the group detained in a cramped cell.
Officials acknowledge the arrest of "seven or eight" individuals for performing without proper work permits, hinting at potential deportation. According to a police source, "four or five" detainees are currently held in a Bangkok detention centre.
Despite claims by the organisers, VPI Event, of securing all necessary permits, the band was issued tourist visas by mistake, resulting in their detention. VPI said that immigration officers arrested the artists, ignoring the usual protocol of contacting event organisers in such situations, AFP reported.
Allegations have surfaced of pressure exerted by the Russian consulate to stop the band's performances since December.
While several members holding dual nationality, including Israeli and Australian citizenship, the band enjoys significant recognition in Russia. Their stance against supporting the war in Ukraine led to the cancellation of numerous concerts in 2022, prompting their departure from Russia.
Human Rights Watch called for the release of the detained members, saying they should be allowed to leave freely and that deportation to Russia could subject them to arrest or worse, given their opposition to President Putin and Russia's actions in Ukraine.
