Rights Lawyer Arrested in Laos While Fleeing China

Chinese rights lawyer Lu Siwei, who had been stripped of his license for taking on sensitive cases, was arrested in Laos while attempting to flee to the United States. Activists and family members fear that he will be deported back to China, where he could face imprisonment. Lu had defended individuals targeted by authorities and was under surveillance but not being investigated or charged with a crime. His arrest highlights China's efforts to pursue critics abroad and instill fear among dissidents. Efforts are being made to secure his release.