A jailed gambling tycoon fighting extradition to China received "inhumane treatment" in a Thai prison after saying he was a Chinese spy, his lawyers have told Interpol, saying they fear for his life.

US President Donald Trump's incoming secretary of state is among those calling for Thailand not to deport a group Uyghurs to China, where it is feared they would face persecution.

Beijing: From incense offerings and vibrant lion dances in Beijing to prayer rituals at temples in Bangkok and Taipei, hundreds of millions of

The AP’s vast network of sources and collaborative reporting led to the first report on detained Uyghurs in Thailand who face deportation and persecution

The abduction and cross-border rescue had all the makings of the kind of action script struggling Chinese actor Wang Xing had hoped to land - only not as a reality star.

Lunar New Year festivals and prayers are marking the start of the Year of the Snake around Asia and farther afield.

Eight consecutive public holidays give Chinese residents an opportunity to share meals, attend traditional performances and set off firecrackers.

From prayer rituals at temples in Taipei and Bangkok to incense offerings and vibrant lion dances in Beijing, hundreds of millions of people across Asia yesterday celebrated the Lunar New Year, ushering in the Year of the Snake.

BANGKOK (Reuters) -A jailed gambling tycoon fighting extradition to China received "inhumane treatment" in a Thai prison after saying he was a Chinese spy, his lawyers have told Interpol, saying they fear for his life.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said that escalating tensions between the two countries could lead to catastrophic global consequences.

China and Thailand also agreed to set up a coordination centre in Bangkok to investigate and combat the scam complexes that have mushroomed along the Thai border with Myanmar and Cambodia. The initiative is expected to start operations next month. (Reporting by Liz Lee and Beijing newsroom; Editing by Kate Mayberry)