China has once again announced plans to bolster its international law enforcement collaboration to crack down on online gambling and telecom fraud, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.

The move comes amid a surge in cross-border scams and fraudulent activities that have impacted Chinese nationals and foreign citizens alike.

At a press briefing on Wednesday (5 February), Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that China is actively seeking cooperation with relevant countries to combat online criminal activities.

Special emphasis has been placed on addressing recent cross-border telecom fraud cases near the Thailand-Myanmar border.

China has repeatedly engaged with neighbouring governments to develop joint strategies for tackling these crimes. The authorities welcome strict enforcement measures taken by partner countries and express readiness to deepen collaboration with Thailand and others.

This cooperation aims to dismantle criminal networks, protect Chinese nationals abroad, and maintain order in cross-border exchanges.

China’s increasing focus on fraud prevention follows several high-profile incidents, including the recent rescue of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was abducted in Thailand and later transported to Myanmar under the guise of an acting opportunity.

His case has underscored the dangers of transnational fraud schemes and the importance of strengthened law enforcement measures.

Strengthening China-Thailand relations

Chinese President Xi Jinping underscored the need for enhanced cooperation during a meeting in Beijing with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Thursday.

The Thai leader’s visit, which runs from 5-8 February, coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Thailand.

President Xi emphasised that the two countries should deepen mutual trust and expand collaboration to counter rising global uncertainties.

He highlighted joint infrastructure projects, such as the high-speed railway connecting Bangkok with Kunming in China’s Yunnan province, as key areas of cooperation.

Additionally, he pointed to the digital economy and electric vehicles as emerging sectors where stronger ties could benefit both nations.

Beyond economic development, the discussions focused on combatting online fraud and ensuring the safety of citizens. Given the escalating cases of cross-border scams, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working closely on law enforcement efforts.

China’s previous efforts to curb gambling and fraud

China has long maintained stringent regulations against online gambling, viewing it as a source of financial and social instability. In recent years, Beijing has taken several measures to crack down on illicit gambling operations, particularly in Southeast Asia.

While China has seemingly been at the forefront of cracking down on cross-border scams, Chinese nationals have also been implicated in various fraud operations across the Asia-Pacific region.

One prominent case involved Chinese criminal syndicates running scam call centres in Cambodia and Myanmar.

These networks lured victims — often through job advertisements — into working at fraud centres where they were forced to conduct phone scams targeting individuals across Asia.

Victims were frequently coerced into engaging in fraudulent schemes, with many reporting instances of abuse and human trafficking.

In 2022, reports of human trafficking at Cambodian casinos became increasingly alarming, with numerous victims recounting their harrowing experiences. In one incident, dozens of individuals managed to flee captivity by swimming across a river into Vietnam.

Upon reaching the border, they described the brutal conditions they had endured, likening their situation to forced labour.

According to reports from Vietnam’s An Giang Province, border guards encountered 40 escapees who had crossed the Binh Di River in a desperate bid for freedom.

These individuals had been held against their will in multiple Cambodian casinos, where they were allegedly subjected to exploitative conditions. Many of the casinos are run by Chinese nationals.

Tragically, not all who attempted the escape made it to safety. While 40 individuals successfully reached Vietnam, two others were not as fortunate.

One reportedly drowned while trying to cross the river, while another was recaptured by casino operators before they could make it to the border.

China not giving up

In 2020, China pressured these countries to take stricter actions against online gambling rings targeting Chinese citizens. As a result, Cambodia shut down its overt online gambling industry, leading to the closure of numerous operations linked to organised crime.

China has also implemented a blacklist system to prevent its citizens from traveling to foreign gambling hubs known for illegal activities.

The initiative, introduced in 2020, aims to restrict travel to destinations where Chinese nationals are frequently targeted for illicit gambling schemes and fraud.

China’s intensified collaboration with regional governments aims to dismantle these fraud networks while ensuring that Chinese nationals do not engage in such activities.

By enhancing its law enforcement measures and fostering international partnerships, China hopes to curb the growing threats posed by online gambling and telecom fraud.

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