China deports 8 Americans detained for pro-Tibet protests in Beijing

Beijing, Aug 25 : China has reportedly deported eight Americans who were detained in Beijing last week during the wave of pro-Tibet protests coinciding with the Olympics.

The US embassy in Beijing confirmed the release of the eight Americans. "Chinese authorities informed us last night that the eight individuals, detained August 20 and 21 respectively, were deported by Chinese authorities," The News quoted a US embassy spokeswoman as telling a foreign news agency.

Two other detained foreigners, a Briton and a Tibetan-German, were also reported to have been deported back to their respective countries. Though there was no immediate official confirmation about this.

According to the report, the eight detained Americans left China while the Olympic closing ceremony was taking place.

They were awarded 10-day sentences for being involved in pro-Tibet protests.

ANI