China authorities reported the detection of 35,000 illegal border crossings last year, resulting in the arrest of over 32,000 individuals involved in cross-border gambling and fraud crimes.
On Thursday, the National Immigration Administration of the country noted that this year saw the dismantling of various criminal gangs believed to be orchestrating telephone or cyber scams from northern Myanmar. These gangs were purportedly affiliated with criminal organizations focused on deceiving Chinese nationals.
As a result, 79,000 individuals suspected of engaging in cyber scams were arrested, marking a response to the resolution of 391,000 telecommunications-related crimes from the previous year.
China has announced its collaboration with countries such as Thailand, the Philippines, and Cambodia, in “international law enforcement missions” to combat such activities.
Overall, China reported that it detained 109,000 suspects for committing border crimes in 2023, in addition to sanctioning 65,000 foreign citizens who entered, resided, or worked in the country irregularly. Among the 65,000 foreigners sanctioned, 26,000 were deported.
Crackdown on cross-border gambling
This week, Chinese Public Security Minister Wang Xiaohong reiterated the need for a more robust crackdown on cross-border gambling in China. He emphasized the necessity to intensify efforts, concentrate resources, and strengthen coordination for the crackdown on cross-border gambling.
Wang stressed the importance of keeping up with evolving offenses related to cross-border gambling, focusing on eradicating gambling dens and supply chains, and fully implementing preventive and monitoring measures against cross-border gambling.
The nationwide crackdown on cross-border gambling began in 2021, as Chinese authorities criminalized illegal cross-border gambling activities. Meanwhile, despite Macau being a unique Chinese territory where gambling is legal, officials have initiated a campaign against gambling. This ultimately led to the cessation of junkets operating VIP rooms in Macau. The number of licensed junkets has halved to only 18 this year.
