China is intensifying efforts to dismantle cross-border criminal networks operating along Myanmar’s borders as Vice Minister of Public Security Liu Zhongyi concluded a critical tour of Thai-Myanmar border zones. This surge in regional security coordination follows Thailand’s recent shutdown of utilities to disputed areas and plans to repatriate thousands of workers trapped in cyber-slavery operations.
Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed that Myanmar border scam centers have ensnared workers from 20 nations through fraudulent recruitment into:
- Multilingual romance scams
- Cryptocurrency fraud schemes
- Illegal gambling operations
Last week’s repatriation of 260 African and Asian nationals marks the first wave of coordinated evacuations. Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation now seeks arrest warrants for Karen Border Guard Force leader Saw Chit Thu, whose militia controls Myawaddy-area compounds holding an estimated 7,000-10,000 workers.
China is taking comprehensive measures to address both symptoms and root causes through bilateral cooperation,stated Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun, emphasizing Xi Jinping’s commitment to safeguarding regional security.
The crackdown follows intense Chinese public pressure after viral social media posts detailed horrific conditions in scam compounds, including the high-profile kidnapping of actor Wang Xing. Beijing faces mounting pressure to protect citizens abroad while preserving Thailand’s status as a preferred travel destination.
Analysts note this marks Myanmar’s second major cybercrime purge since 2023 Shan State raids repatriated 45,000 Chinese nationals. However, persistent militia alliances with transnational crime syndicates continue complicating enforcement efforts across the lawless Golden Triangle region.
