By Uyghur Times Staff
July 16, 2025 – Istanbul
A Uyghur man legally residing in Turkey was detained at Istanbul Airport and forcibly deported to Saudi Arabia upon his return from a personal trip, despite holding valid residency and having no criminal record or deportation order.
Ali Abdurrezzak (listed as Aili Abdurizake in his passport), a long-time Istanbul resident living with his family, was stopped by Turkish authorities upon arrival from Saudi Arabia, where he had traveled for a visit. He was reportedly held at the airport from early yesterday morning and denied re-entry into the country.
Despite holding a valid Turkish residence permit and having no known legal or criminal issues, Abdurrezzak was forcibly returned to Saudi Arabia—a move that Uyghur Hope Humanitarian Service described as a violation of legal norms and due process.
His family, who remains in Turkey, is calling for transparency and legal accountability for what they describe as an unjust and alarming act. Human rights organizations are also urging Turkish authorities to explain the reasoning behind the deportation and ensure the safety of Uyghur refugees and residents within the country.
Source: Uyghur Hope Humanitarian Service