China and Myanmar Strengthen Cooperation to Combat Cross-Border Crime
China and Myanmar have engaged in discussions to bolster law enforcement and security collaboration, aiming to establish a permanent mechanism to combat cross-border crimes like online gambling and telecommunications fraud. This commitment was announced in a statement released by the Chinese embassy in Myanmar.
The Myanmar government has pledged its dedication to cracking down on these illegal activities. The statement details a meeting between Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Ma Jia and Chinese Assistant Minister of Public Security Liu Zhongyi with Myanmar's Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Than Swe and Union Minister for Home Affairs Lieutenant-General Tun Tun Naung.
During the meeting, Myanmar officials outlined their government's plan to combat online gambling and telecommunications fraud. They also pledged to strengthen coordination with China and neighboring countries to promote bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
Chinese officials commended Myanmar's commitment to protecting Chinese citizens, emphasizing the severe threat posed by online gambling and telecommunications fraud to lives and property.
Discussions focused on tackling online scams and gambling operations in Myawaddy, a notorious hub for scam networks located on the Myanmar-Thailand border. The two sides also explored measures to rescue and repatriate Chinese nationals and improve information sharing regarding legal action and the expulsion of foreigners who enter Myanmar illegally.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun highlighted China's close collaboration with Myanmar, Thailand, and other countries to implement comprehensive measures to address the root causes of online crime and prevent criminals from exploiting regional borders.
Guo emphasized the urgency of combating these crimes to safeguard the shared interests of regional nations and fulfill the aspirations of their people.
According to the Bangkok Post, Liu visited Mae Sot in Thailand, across from Myawaddy, on Sunday. Myanmar has transferred 261 victims rescued from the KK Park and Shwe Kokko scam hubs in Myawaddy to Thai authorities for repatriation.
Liu's previous visit to Thailand two weeks ago urged authorities to take decisive action against scam networks in Myanmar, which he identified as a significant threat to both China and Thailand.
On February 5th, Thailand cut electricity, internet services, and fuel supplies to five areas of Myanmar, including Myawaddy, as part of its efforts to disrupt scam operations.
5 Comments
Comandante
“From my perspective, deeper government intervention in border areas will only lead to more abuses of power in the name of security.”
The Truth
“Instead of real reform, this initiative might just bolster authoritarian practices between two governments.”
Answer
“I’m not convinced that the focus on online gambling and fraud won’t be used as an excuse to blame other groups and oppress minorities.”
The Truth
“Cross-border cooperation? More like cross-border surveillance. This approach might lead to increased loss of privacy for ordinary citizens.”
Cerebro
“The language in these announcements is too vague—who decides what counts as ‘online crime’? It’s a slippery slope that could target legitimate activities.”