Cambodia has extradited 20 Uighurs to China.

The group of Muslims requested asylum a few weeks ago in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh. They had fled China following the riots in July between Uighurs and Han Chinese in the western province of Xinjiang. At least 200 people died in the fighting.

Human rights organisations have sharply criticised the extradition, saying the Uighurs may face torture or even execution upon their return. Cambodia says the Uighurs are illegal aliens and that, like all other illegals, must leave the country.

China and Cambodia have been allies for several years now, with Cambodia receiving financial aid from China. On Sunday, Chinese Vice President Xi Jingping will begin a three-day visit to Cambodia.