Chinese-run online money laundering continues in DKBA-controlled areas of Myanmar despite crackdown

Investigations have revealed that Chinese nationals continue to operate online money laundering schemes in the Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA)-controlled areas of Kyaukhet, Walle, and Minletpan villages near Myawaddy, Karen State.

On 5 March, a DKBA official held a press conference announcing that 443 victims of human trafficking involved in online fraud operations would be repatriated. The group includes individuals from Ethiopia, Kenya, Indonesia, and Laos, but no Chinese nationals were among them.

Earlier, on 12 February, the DKBA handed over 261 foreign nationals to Thailand, again excluding any Chinese detainees. This has raised concerns that Chinese mafias linked to these illicit operations continue to operate in the region.