Myanmar has repatriated 45 foreign nationals detained for illegal entry and alleged involvement in telecom fraud and online gambling schemes in the Myawady–Shwe Kokko area of Kayin State.
According to The Global New Light of Myanmar, the individuals had entered the country through irregular border routes from Thailand and neighbouring states before taking part in criminal activities in the border region.
The group consisted of 17 Ethiopians, 16 Ugandans, 11 Filipinos and one Malagasy. They were formally handed over to officials from their respective countries via the Myanmar–Thailand Friendship Bridge II. Authorities said the transfers were conducted in line with Myanmar’s legal procedures and in consideration of humanitarian support and bilateral goodwill.
Ahead of the handover, members of the Myawady District Administration and Management Committee, including Lt-Col San Shwe, reviewed documentation and coordinated logistics to ensure the process was orderly and accurate. Representatives from the Philippines, Madagascar, Ethiopia, Uganda and Thailand’s Tak Province Immigration Office attended the ceremony, during which Myanmar officials delivered case files and related evidence.
The latest repatriation is part of a broader effort to dismantle online scam networks operating near the Myanmar–Thailand border. From January 30 2025 to January 19 2026, authorities detained 14,151 foreign nationals who had entered Myawaddy Township illegally. Of these, 12,152 have already been transferred to their home countries, while the remaining 1,999 are being held pending repatriation.
Myanmar’s government says it continues to work closely with neighbouring countries and international partners to identify foreign nationals leading scam centres and to pursue strong legal action against those responsible.
At the same time, officials emphasise that assistance is being provided to victims of trafficking and those stranded in the region so that they can return home safely.
Myanmar says it works with regional governments and international organizations to identify and remove online scam operators
