TEN foreigners who had illegally entered Myanmar through border routes after transiting neighbouring countries, including Thailand, were repatriated to their respective countries through the Myanmar-Thailand Friendship Bridge II in consideration of humanitarian concerns and bilateral relations, in line with legal procedures.

The group included six South Africans, three Malaysians, and one Russian who had engaged in illegal online gambling, online scams, and other criminal activities in MyawadyShwe Kokko, KK Park, and Kyaukkhat areas in Kayin State.

To ensure the repatriation process was systematic and smooth, Deputy Director U Myint Bhone of Kayin State’s Immigration and Population Department and other responsible officials met with combined teams of relevant departments yesterday morning to review the repatriation process and verify the completeness of documentation.

The handover ceremony saw Deputy Director U Myint Bhone and departmental officials, Counsellor Mr Ilya Ilin and staff from the Russian Embassy in Thailand, Representative Mr Tana Judah Hira and staff from the South African Embassy in Thailand, Deputy Chief of Mission Mr Bong Yik Jui and staff from the Malaysian Embassy in Thailand, and officials from the Tak District Immigration Office. Myanmar officials formally handed over the necessary documents to the officials from the respective countries.

From 30 January to 7 October 2025, a total of 9,439 foreigners who illegally entered Myanmar were apprehended, among whom 9,337 have already been repatriated through Thailand to their respective countries in line with legal procedures. The remaining 102 foreigners are being properly held and prepared for repatriation.

The Myanmar government continues to collaborate with neighbouring countries and international organizations to prevent and eliminate illegal online gambling and financial fraud in border regions and to swiftly repatriate foreign nationals, including those victimized by human trafficking.

MNA/KZL

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