Deported Chinese refugee commits suicide

Saturday, June 21, 2008 - 10:00
By Luke Weyland

Bill Zhang, a Chinese refugee, killed himself after his forcible deportation from Australia, according to a June 16 ABC report. Zhang spent two years in Australia's Villawood refugee prison.

The ABC reported: "He spent almost a decade arguing his case for asylum, repeatedly telling Australian authorities he was at risk because of his involvement with pro-democracy groups in China."

Upon his return he was imprisoned by the Chinese Public Safety Bureau and subjected to regular beatings.

From GLW issue 756