Updates via Dave–
Hich, a popular, respected and valued former PhD student and current employee of the University of Nottingham now faces deportation to Algeria on Sunday 1st June.
Following last weeks ‘terror operation’ incident, Hich was re-arrested under immigration legislation and, due to confusion over his visa documentation, charged with offences relating to his immigration status. He sought legal advice and representation over these matters whilst in custody. On Friday 23rd May, he was suddenly served with a deportation notice and moved to an immigration detention centre.
The authorities are clearly trying to circumvent the criminal justice system and force Hicham out of the country. Normally they would have to wait for criminal proceedings to finish, but here they have managed to convince the prosecution to drop the charges in an attempt to remove him a quick, covert manner. The desire for justice is clearly not the driving force behind this, as Hicham was happy to stand trial and prove his innocence.
There’s a breaking article in the Independent:
Check out this blog for updates:
http://freehichamyezza.wordpress.com/
Please raise as much awareness about this as you can. And if you’re keen to fundraise or be involved contact: staffandstudents@googlemail.com
A recent article in the Guardian covers the ‘terror operation’ incident:
http://education.guardian.co.uk/higher/news/story/0,,2282045,00.html
The university administration remain unapologetic for their actions. Their statements are a clear attempt to undermine and discredit critical media and the widespread condemnation that they now face. This incident has raised some very specific concerns, highlighted in a petition that is in circulation, and will be available for signing next week, and at Wednesday’s “public reading”. We must not let this injustice slide.
Ten Percent 
26 May, 2008 at 1:12 am
See there are lot of good reasons to hate it, but getting stuff like this out is one thing facebook is very good for.