China Executes 11 Criminals Linked to Myanmar Organized Crime Syndicate

China has executed 11 individuals connected to organized crime rings operating in Myanmar, concluding a lengthy legal process. The convicts were found guilty of serious offenses, including telecom fraud, human trafficking, and running illegal gambling dens. They were sentenced to death by a court in Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, in September 2025.

The criminals were mainly associated with criminal gangs in northern Myanmar, infamous for their lawlessness and significant role in illicit operations. The group’s crimes have been responsible for massive financial losses estimated in the billions and the deaths of 14 Chinese citizens.

Ming Family Criminal Network

Among those executed were prominent members of the notorious Ming family, known for their significant influence over Laukkaing, a crucial border town. Their criminal operation extended beyond fraud to include gambling establishments that lured victims, many of whom were trafficked into the area.

Over the years, the Ming family’s activities reportedly generated around CNY10 billion (approximately $1.4 billion), positioning them as major players in Southeast Asia’s organized crime scene. The executions followed a lengthy legal battle, with their appeal against the death sentences rejected by the Higher People’s Court of Zhejiang province in November 2025. The ruling was later upheld by the Supreme People’s Court to serve as a deterrent to other criminal organizations.

Crackdown on Telecom Fraud

This execution marks a significant step in China’s intensified campaign against telecom fraud and online gambling, which have thrived in the border areas of Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. Known as “pig-butchering”, these scams target victims worldwide, particularly Western countries, and are estimated to have caused US$40 billion in annual losses.

In response, Chinese authorities have strengthened collaboration with Southeast Asian nations, including Myanmar and Thailand, to dismantle these illegal operations. The involvement of trafficked individuals, often coerced into working in online scam centers under harsh conditions, has sparked international outcry. The United Nations estimates that hundreds of thousands are trapped in such exploitative environments across the region.

Myanmar’s Ongoing Challenges

In Myanmar, ongoing instability and armed conflict have fostered an environment conducive to illicit activities, prompting criticism of the government for its insufficient response to these operations. Recently, however, Myanmar’s military government has stepped up raids on scam centers, mainly in response to pressure from China.

Critics argue that these actions serve as propaganda rather than addressing the root problems. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has highlighted the alarming rise of online scam centers as a global issue. In reaction, countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom have imposed sanctions on several organizations linked to this industry, including the Prince Group.