China Executes 11 in Crackdown on Myanmar-Based Cyber Scam Network

China has executed 11 individuals linked to cyber scam operations based in Myanmar, including key members of the Ming family criminal syndicate, according to state media.

Authorities said those executed were convicted of multiple crimes, including intentional homicide, large-scale fraud, and running illegal casinos. State broadcaster China Central Television reported that the group played a central role in online and telecommunications scams targeting victims across the Myanmar border.

Cyber scam networks in Southeast Asia, particularly in Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia, have grown rapidly in recent years. United Nations reports indicate that while these operations generate billions of dollars, many workers in the scam centres are victims of human trafficking.

China’s Foreign Ministry confirmed ongoing cooperation with Myanmar and neighboring countries to combat cross-border telecommunications fraud. Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun noted that joint operations to tackle online gambling and telecom scams have produced “significant results” in safeguarding lives and property.

Investigations revealed that the Ming family syndicate orchestrated fraud totaling more than 10 billion yuan (around $1.4 billion), causing the deaths of 14 Chinese citizens and injuries to many others.

The executions were approved by China’s Supreme People’s Court, and officials confirmed the convicted were allowed to meet relatives before the sentences were carried out.

The crackdown intensified following the 2025 kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing near the Myanmar border, which prompted coordinated efforts by China and neighboring countries. These operations led to the repatriation of hundreds of Chinese nationals who had been forced to work in scam centres.