The Government of Myanmar is identifying and investigating foreign nationals who have illegally entered and resided in border areas and who were involved in criminal activities, including online gambling and online fraud. Those found to be involved are being systematically deported and transferred to their respective countries in accordance with legal procedures.

During the ongoing deportation process, authorities uncovered and detained an additional 20 Chinese nationals who had entered sites located around Myawady, Kayin State, through illegal routes after transiting through certain neighbouring countries, including Thailand.

Investigations were conducted to facilitate their deportation.

In order to ensure their prompt repatriation to their respective country, joint departmental teams are currently collecting the necessary personal data and records. Under the supervision of District Administrator U Kaung San Lin, Chairman of the Myawady District Management and Administrative Committee, officials led by Deputy Director U Kyaw Kyaw Than, District Head of the Ministry of Immigration and Population, inspected the ongoing documentation and registration process and coordinated the required arrangements on 5 March 2026.

From 30 January 2025 to 6 March 2026, a total of 14,385 foreign nationals who had illegally entered Myawady Township were detained. All of them have been investigated, and 13,262 individuals have already been systematically deported to their respective countries via Thailand in pursuit of legal procedures.

The remaining 1,123 foreign nationals are ready to be transferred to their respective countries and are being properly accommodated and cared for.

Among those awaiting transfer, 154 foreign nationals are currently being held at the Myoma Police Station, and legal proceedings were initiated on 5 March 2026, according to the law.

The Government of Myanmar is actively cooperating with neighbouring and regional countries as well as international organizations to identify, arrest and take effective and stringent action against those involved in online scam centre operations, including foreign nationals who orchestrate such activities from behind the scenes.

In addition, authorities are working effectively to coordinate the swift repatriation of foreign nationals who have fallen into hardship for various reasons, including victims of human trafficking, so that they may be returned to their respective countries as soon as possible, according to reports. — MNA/KZL