Online Scam Arrests: Myanmar Ethnic Armed Group Hands Over 762 Chinese Citizens to China
The United Wa State Army (UWSA) Steps In to Combat Online Fraud
YANGON – In a significant move to combat online fraud, the Myanmar ethnic armed group, United Wa State Army (UWSA), has arrested more than 760 Chinese citizens suspected of being involved in online scams and handed them over to China. According to UWSA spokesperson Nyi Rang, the group arrested more than 1,000 people during raids in its territory near the China border, with over 760 of them being Chinese nationals.
Online Fraud: A Growing Concern
Online fraud compounds have flourished in Myanmar’s borderlands, staffed by citizens from China and other countries who are often trafficked and forced to work swindling their compatriots. This illegal activity has been a growing concern for both Myanmar and China, with analysts estimating its worth to be billions of dollars a year.
China’s Calls for Crackdown
China has repeatedly told the Myanmar junta and ethnic armed groups on its borders to crack down on the industry. The UWSA spokesperson stated that among the arrested, 762 are from China, and they were transferred to China through the group’s border gate yesterday.
Myanmar Nationals Still Being Questioned
The remaining 300 people are Myanmar nationals and are currently being questioned by the UWSA. According to Nyi Rang, they will be released after questioning.
China’s Embassy Contacted for Comment
AFP has contacted China’s embassy in Yangon for comment, but there has been no response so far.
Large-Scale Handovers to China
This is not the first time that China has received a large number of individuals suspected of being involved in online scams from Myanmar. In 2023, more than 40,000 people suspected of taking part in cyber scams in Myanmar were handed over to China, according to Beijing state media.
China’s Ties with Myanmar Ethnic Armed Groups
China is a major ally and arms supplier to the junta, but it also maintains ties with Myanmar ethnic armed groups that hold territory near its border. This complex relationship has raised concerns about China’s role in the ongoing conflict in Myanmar.
Myanmar’s Ongoing Conflict
Myanmar has been roiled by conflict between the military and various armed groups opposed to its rule since the army ousted Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected government in February 2021. The junta chief recently made his first visit to China since seizing power and held talks with Premier Li Qiang on the civil war.
Head of MNDAA Arrested in China
Local media in Myanmar reported this week that Chinese authorities had arrested the head of another powerful rebel group, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA). Beijing claimed that he had come to China for "medical care".
Conclusion
The UWSA’s decision to hand over 762 Chinese citizens suspected of being involved in online scams to China is a significant move to combat this illegal activity. The ongoing conflict in Myanmar and the complex relationship between China and Myanmar’s ethnic armed groups make it crucial for both countries to work together to address this issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the scale of online fraud in Myanmar?
A: Online fraud compounds have flourished in Myanmar’s borderlands, staffed by citizens from China and other countries who are often trafficked and forced to work swindling their compatriots. Analysts estimate its worth to be billions of dollars a year.
Q: Has China received individuals suspected of online fraud from Myanmar before?
A: Yes, in 2023, more than 40,000 people suspected of taking part in cyber scams in Myanmar were handed over to China, according to Beijing state media.
Q: What is the relationship between China and Myanmar’s ethnic armed groups?
A: China is a major ally and arms supplier to the junta, but it also maintains ties with Myanmar ethnic armed groups that hold territory near its border.