(ECNS) -- Chinese police Sunday launched joint operations with their counterparts from Myanmar to bust 11 telecom fraud dens in northern Myanmar and apprehend 269 suspects.
Among the arrested were 186 Chinese, 66 Myanmar nationals, 15 Vietnamese, and 2 Malaysians. Additionally, 21 individuals identified as masterminds, organizers, or key figures were arrested.
There were also 13 criminals who were hunted online, including one related to a homicide case and on the run for 19 years
At the scene, a large number of tools used for telecom fraud were seized, including computers, mobile phones, SIM cards, bank cards, and scripts.
Fraudulent activities primarily involved impersonation of leaders or acquaintances, false investment and financial schemes, and posing as customer service representatives for e-commerce and logistics.
The above instances have been linked to more than 1,100 telecommunications fraud cases across China, with the total amount involved exceeding 120 million yuan(about $16.45 million).
The Chinese suspects have been handed over to Chinese police for investigation.
Since the beginning of this year, there has been a high incidence of telecom fraud originating from northern Myanmar, which has led to a series of related criminal activities, including illegal border crossings and unlawful detentions.
An official from the Ministry of Public Security said that the public security authorities will intensify efforts to combat crimes and safeguard people's lives and property.