Still, Mr. Kine was adamant that the activists' leaving China shouldn't be considered a complete victory.

WSJ: Blind Chinese Activist Departs for U.S.

Not far from Africa Kine, at the Red Rooster restaurant, chef Marcus Samuelson is busy checking orders.

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Phelim Kine, HRW deputy director of Asia, said increased religious tensions could also have an effect on the country's fast-growing economy.

BBC: Indonesia urged to tackle religious intolerance

As a result, local governments intervene, abducting the petitioners either before they leave or once they arrive in Beijing, Kine said.

CNN: Chinese petitioners claim hotel used as 'black jail'

The forced detention of dissidents has become its own cottage industry as public security offices subcontract people to work for them who "are paid per head for each person that they abduct and hold, " Kine added.

CNN: Chinese petitioners claim hotel used as 'black jail'