On 21 June 2011, Mr. Thani Thongphakdi, Director-General of the Department of Information and Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, responded to media enquiries regarding the UNHCR’s press release on the detention of refugees in Thailand that Thailand takes note of the UNHCR’s concern about a number of Pakistani individuals recently arrested for violation of immigration law earlier this month. The Thai authorities concerned continue to work closely with the UNHCR, interested states and NGOs in order to find appropriate solutions for such individuals.
The Foreign Ministry Spokesperson reiterated that whilst staying in the Immigration Detention Center (IDC), all persons have been treated with care in accordance with humanitarian principles and basic human rights.
Thailand, like any other sovereign country, is obliged to uphold the integrity of its immigration law. Therefore, the arrests are by no means arbitrary. It must be clarified that the adults have overstayed their visas, which is an offence under immigration law. The accompanying children, however, have not been charged but remain with their adult family members.
For further information, please contact the Press Division, Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tel.02-6435170, Fax.02-6435169, E-mail: div0704@mfa.go.th