China Sentences 11 People to Death Over Myanmar-Based Criminal Network. Image: The People’s Courts News and Communication Agency, China.
(The Post News)– A recent court decision in China has resulted in the death penalty for 11 individuals linked to a Myanmar-based criminal network. This group, led by the Ming family, was accused of running illegal online gambling and scam activities that reportedly generated over $1.4 billion.
Furthermore, the charges included responsibility for the deaths of several workers who attempted to leave or refused to follow orders.
Court Ruling Exposes Criminal Network
The Wenzhou Intermediate People’s Court delivered the verdict on Monday, sentencing 11 members of the Ming family to death. Additionally, five others received death sentences with a two-year delay, which are often commuted to life imprisonment. Another 12 people were given prison terms ranging from five to 24 years.
Chinese authorities had already issued warrants for key members of the Ming family in late 2023, citing fraud, murder, and unlawful detention. Moreover, the court noted that the criminal network used armed force to establish multiple compounds in Kokang, a region near the Chinese border.
According to the reports, the syndicate was responsible for the deaths of 14 people, including 10 individuals involved in scam operations who attempted to escape. One serious incident in October 2023 involved gunfire aimed at preventing workers from being sent back to China.
The criminal network also reportedly offered protection to investors and operated with support from armed groups. Notably, scam centers like these have become widespread across Southeast Asia, particularly in Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia.
These operations often rely on trafficked individuals who are forced to carry out online fraud, such as fake investment schemes disguised as romantic relationships.
Regional Crackdown on Criminal Network
The United Nations has estimated that this global scam industry could be worth around $40 billion annually. In response, China has been working with neighboring countries to shut down such criminal networks.
For instance, in early 2025, joint efforts by China, Myanmar, and Thailand led to the rescue of over 7,000 workers, most of whom were Chinese nationals.
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