Dissident rock band Bi-2 leave Thailand after Russia deportation fears

Human rights groups had urged Thai government not to deport Russian-Belarusian band, who are now in Israel

A dissident Russian-Belarusian rock band critical of the war in Ukraine have left Thailand for Israel after fears they would be deported to Russia under suspected pressure from the Kremlin.

Seven members of the Bi-2 group were detained by Thai immigration authorities last Wednesday on the resort island of Phuket for working without a permit. The band were touring in Phuket, a holiday destination popular with Russian tourists.