Yangon, Myanmar – The Myanmar junta’s home minister has departed for China to engage in security discussions with Beijing’s minister for public security, state media reported on Thursday.
Lieutenant-General Yar Pyae traveled to China on Wednesday for a “working visit to talk about law enforcement and security cooperation from 24 to 29 April” at the invitation of Wang Xiaohong, according to the Global New Light of Myanmar.
It did not provide more details, but relations between the junta and Beijing — a significant ally and supplier of weapons — have become strained in recent months due to the increase in online scam operations in Myanmar’s border areas.
The operations involve citizens of China and other countries who are often trafficked and compelled to engage in fraudulent activities targeting their fellow citizens.
China has repeatedly urged Myanmar’s military to take action against the industry, mainly concentrated in northern Shan state, estimated to be worth billions of dollars annually.
Last year, ethnic armed groups launched a swift offensive, seizing territory and valuable border crossings, with tacit support from China due to the junta’s inaction, according to analysts.
A combined effort by China and the junta has resulted in tens of thousands being apprehended and deported to China, including several high-profile individuals involved in the scams.
However, a report from the United States Institute of Peace this week indicated that the “vast majority” of the syndicates have relocated to Karen State on the Thai border, where they are being harbored by local militia groups.
Analysts suggest that the groups operating around the border hub of Myawaddy have access to thousands of fighters.
Agence France-Presse
