THE Government of Myanmar, in collaboration with international organizations and neighbouring countries, is intensifying efforts to eradicate telecom fraud and related criminal activities. As part of these efforts, five foreign nationals – four from Ethiopia and one from Kenya—who were illegally residing in Myanmar and engaged in unlawful online gambling, online scams, and other criminal activities in Shwe Kokko, KK Park, and Kyaukkhet areas in Myawady, Kayin State, were repatriated via Thailand yesterday.

Authorities conducted the transfer with due consideration for humanitarian grounds and friendly international relations, following legal and procedural requirements. To ensure the repatriation process was smooth and systematic, U Myint Phone, Deputy Director-General of the Ministry of Immigration and Population, and officials met with relevant coordination teams to review the repatriation procedures and verify records and documentation before the handover.

The formal handover ceremony was attended by U Myint Phone and officials, representatives from the embassies of Ethiopia and Kenya, including Mr Tana Judah Hira, and Thai immigration officials from Tak Province. Myanmar authorities officially handed over the necessary repatriation documents to the respective countries’ representatives.

Between 30 January and 22 July 2025, a total of 9,299 illegal foreign entrants were detected and detained in Myanmar. Of these, 9,060 individuals were repatriated to their respective countries via Thailand under the law, while the remaining 239 individuals are in custody, awaiting transfer.

The government is actively investigating and taking decisive action against foreigners operating online scam centres and criminal networks. Simultaneously, authorities are working with other countries to repatriate foreign victims of human trafficking and those in distress as swiftly as possible.

MNA/ KZL

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