National Security Council (NSC) is looking into a report that members of the Russian rock band “Bi-2”, known for their outspoken criticism of the Russian government, were arrested in Phuket for performing concerts without a permit in Phuket and may be deported to Russia.

Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara said that the NSC wants to determine the nationalities of those who were arrested for staging a concert without a permit.

“In this case, we have to take into consideration international laws. Once we have the information we need, we will be able to proceed in the require manner,” he said.

Human Rights Watch has pleaded with Thai authorities not to deport the Russian-Belarusian rock band members back to their homeland, stating that they could face persecution for their criticism of the Kremlin.

It was earlier reported that five of the seven musicians playing in the progressive rock band travelled on Russian passports. At least four are reportedly also Israeli nationals, including the two founders, Aleksandr “Shura” Uman and Yegor “Lyova” Bortnik.