Thailand begins extradition process against Chinese journalist
Bai Zhaodong, who exposed corruption in China, is wanted by Beijing and has been detained in Thailand for months.
Thailand has initiated the extradition process against Chinese investigative journalist Bai Zhaodong, who faces charges of extortion and bribery from Beijing. The 56-year-old journalist, recognized by the UN as a refugee, has been detained in Thailand since January 2026 after fleeing China due to escalating persecution. Bai exposed government corruption in China for two decades before leaving in 2023.
Chinese officials claim Bai was suspected of extortion and bribery, leading to an extradition request being submitted to Thai authorities. Thailand's Attorney General's spokesman, Prayuth Pecharakun, confirmed that the extradition hearing process could take several months. His lawyer, Nadthasiri Bergman, also confirmed to AFP that Bai had been taken to court to face extradition proceedings, though the hearing was not previously announced.
Human rights group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) criticized the development, calling it "scandalous" and expressing concern for Bai's safety if returned to China. RSF believes his life may be in danger if he is deported. The organization urges the international community to pressure Bangkok to halt Bai's deportation and allow him to travel safely to the country of his choice.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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