Myanmar and China crack down on cybercrime fugitives

In a major blow to online scam operations, police from Myanmar and China arrested 313 Chinese nationals, including 45 fugitives wanted for cybercrime. The arrests, part of a coordinated effort between the two countries, aim to stamp out online fraud and strengthen cross-border law enforcement.

The bust took place in September, following a joint operation between Myanmar’s Ministry of Home Affairs, the Myanmar Police Force, and China’s Ministry of Public Security. A total of 870 individuals were taken into custody, comprising 313 Chinese nationals and 557 Myanmar citizens.

Police seized key evidence, including computers, mobile phones, and other devices used in the scam network. Several buildings linked to these operations have been sealed off, with legal action pending, stated a spokesperson from the Ministry of Information.

“These arrests are a significant step forward in our ongoing fight against online scams and illegal gambling.”

The 313 Chinese nationals, including the 45 fugitives, were transferred to China on September 26 via the Ruili border crossing in Yunnan province, where they will face further legal proceedings. Myanmar has charged the arrested individuals under its laws, while Chinese police will continue the legal process upon their repatriation.

Investigations remain ongoing, with Myanmar and China vowing to deepen their cooperation to root out these illicit operations. Law enforcement agencies from both nations are expected to continue sharing intelligence to prevent further scams, particularly in border areas notorious for such criminal activity, reported The Nation.

In related news, the Government of Thailand is set to unleash new laws in its war against online scams, with a toughened stance on cybercriminals. Deputy Prime Minister and Digital Economy (MDES) Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, vowed to not only protect consumers but also tackle the soaring number of fraud cases that threaten the nation’s economic security.

In other news, police are set to investigate the gold shop business of Kornkanok Suwannabut, known on social media as Mae Tuck, to determine if it is being used as a front for money laundering.