Jakarta: Hakeem al-Araibi was detained in Bangkok after the Australian government informed their Thai counterparts the refugee footballer was travelling to Thailand and subject to an Interpol Red Notice.

On Wednesday, the Department of Home Affairs attempted to distance itself from Araibi's detention, arguing that "any action taken in response to the Interpol Red Notice is a matter for Thai authorities".

Bahraini football player Hakeem al-Araibi, centre, is brought in to a court in Bangkok, Thailand, on Tuesday. Credit:AP

But Human Rights groups were sharply critical of Australian authorities' decision to notify Thailand of Araibi's travel plans, arguing it was effectively responsible for his detention.

Araibi was granted refugee status by Australia after fleeing his home country of Bahrain. He was arrested in Thailand more than two weeks ago.