Rohingya Migrants Found on Thai Beach
Rescued from Perilous Journey
A group of 49 Rohingya migrants was found today near a beach on Thailand’s popular island of Phuket, police told AFP. The mostly Muslim Rohingya experience persecution in their predominantly Buddhist homeland of Myanmar, with many fleeing to refugee camps in Bangladesh or risking their lives on perilous sea journeys to try to reach Malaysia or Indonesia through Thailand.
Weak and Frail State
The group was discovered by residents near Phuket’s Ta Chat Chai temple in a “weak and frail” state, according to local media reports. “The community found 49 Rohingya and we took them to the police station,” senior police officer Sopit Ruangsri told AFP.
Journey from Bangladesh
The group told police via a translator that they had left Bangladesh with 75 others in an effort to reach Malaysia, but claimed many were assaulted and died during the journey, Sopit said, without giving further details.
Temporary Shelter and Aid
The group is now in a temporary shelter under the Thai authorities’ care and would be sent to “a third country”, although officials have not yet specified where. The police, in collaboration with the interior ministry, have provided food, water and medical aid to the group.
Detection Centres
If caught, Rohingya migrants are often sent to detention centres that rights groups say are typically overcrowded and filthy. These centres are notorious for their poor conditions, with reports of inadequate food, water, and medical care.
Conclusion
The discovery of the 49 Rohingya migrants on the Thai beach is a stark reminder of the perilous journey many Rohingya take in search of safety and refuge. While the Thai authorities have provided temporary shelter and aid to the group, the fate of many Rohingya migrants remains uncertain, with the risk of being sent to overcrowded and filthy detention centres.
FAQs
Q: Who are the Rohingya?
A: The Rohingya are a predominantly Muslim ethnic group from Myanmar (Burma) who have been persecuted and discriminated against by the government and majority Buddhist population.
Q: Why do Rohingya migrants flee Myanmar?
A: The Rohingya flee Myanmar due to widespread persecution, discrimination, and violence, including forced labor, arbitrary arrest, and sexual violence.
Q: What is the journey like for Rohingya migrants?
A: The journey for Rohingya migrants is often perilous, with many risking their lives on rickety boats and facing exploitation, abuse, and violence at the hands of smugglers and traffickers.
Q: What happens to Rohingya migrants who are caught?
A: If caught, Rohingya migrants are often sent to detention centres that are typically overcrowded and filthy, with reports of inadequate food, water, and medical care.