ELEVEN Pakistani nationals, who entered Myanmar illegally through border routes via neighbouring countries, including Thailand, were deported today. These individuals had been involved in criminal activities, including illegal online gambling and online scams, in the Myawady-Shwe Kokko area of Kayin State. They were repatriated via the Myanmar-Thai Friendship Bridge II in line with the legal procedures, guided by humanitarian principles and the spirit of bilateral friendship. Additionally, two Indian nationals were identified and detained for investigation pending deportation.
To ensure the repatriation process was conducted systematically and smoothly, Myawady District Management and Administration Committee Chairman and District Administrator U Kaung San Linn, met with relevant departmental officials. He oversaw the verification of records and data for accuracy and coordinated necessary logistics.
The deportation ceremony was attended by U Kyaw Kyaw Than, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Immigration and Population, and other officials. Also present were Mr Fahd Saleem, First Secretary of the Pakistani Embassy to Thailand, and officials from the Tak Province Immigration Department in Thailand. The Myanmar authorities formally handed over the relevant repatriation documents to their international counterparts.
Furthermore, two Indian nationals who had entered the area near Myawady through illegal routes were identified and detained. Investigations are currently underway to facilitate their deportation.
From 30 January 2025 to 23 February 2026, a total of 14,208 foreign nationals who entered Myawaddy Township illegally have been detained. All have undergone screening; 13,128 of them have already been systematically deported to their respective home countries via Thailand in accordance with legal protocols. The remaining 1,080 foreign nationals are currently in safe custody and are prepared for repatriation to their respective countries.
The State is actively collaborating with neighbouring countries, regional partners, and international organisations to identify and take decisive action against foreign nationals involved in or orchestrating online scam centres. Furthermore, the government is coordinating effectively to ensure the swift repatriation of foreign nationals who have fallen into distress or become victims of human trafficking. — MNA/MKKS
