Human rights groups are urging Thailand not to extradite a Vietnamese activist detained in Bangkok, citing concerns for his safety if returned to Vietnam. The activist, Y Quynh Bdap, who held United Nations refugee status in Thailand, was arrested by local police shortly after meeting with Canadian Embassy officials to seek asylum. Bdap, co-founder of the Montagnards Stand for Justice group, was convicted in absentia in Vietnam on charges related to organizing anti-government riots in Dak Lak province.
Before his arrest, Bdap had been in hiding for six months after Vietnamese authorities sought him in Thailand with Thai assistance. In a video statement, Bdap denied involvement in the alleged violent incident, emphasizing his peaceful human rights activism focused on religious freedom and advocating for people's rights.
