Myanmar Roundup: Drug trafficking, mass tourism strategy, global refugee ranking
Three arrested for drug trafficking in Myanmar's Yangon
Myanmar authorities arrested three individuals, including a Malaysian national, for drug trafficking activities in Yangon. A joint anti-narcotic task force conducted a vehicle search on December 22, resulting in the seizure of substantial quantities of illegal substances, including 238.5 grams of 'Happy Water,' 27 grams of ketamine, and 400 stimulant tablets. Another suspect apprehended had additional drugs, culminating in a total haul of 6.125 kg of 'Happy Water,' 950 grams of ketamine, and 240 ecstasy pills. Following the arrests, the Malaysian suspect was discovered in possession of another 75 grams of ketamine, 450 ecstasy pills, and drug manufacturing equipment. According to The Star, the total estimated value of the confiscated drugs amounts to approximately 278 million kyats (roughly US$132,000), with reports indicating that the suspects targeted young individuals in entertainment venues across Yangon. Legal proceedings are now underway to address these serious allegations.
Mass tourism strategy
Myanmar's Myeik Archipelago is preparing to welcome a vibrant New Year celebration in 2025, focusing on elevating service quality for both domestic and international tourists. The region aims to showcase its unique charm and natural beauty, establishing itself as a premier holiday destination through memorable experiences for visitors, TTW reports.
Thailand denies arm purchases for Myanmar
In neighbouring Thailand, The Edge reports that the country's central bank and anti-money laundering agency have responded to claims made by a UN expert regarding the potential facilitation of weapons purchases by Thai banks for Myanmar's military. Although a June UN report suggested that Thai banks channelled US$120 million to Myanmar's junta in fiscal 2023, the findings disclosed no evidence of associations with arms procurement, instead highlighting occasional transactions with individuals mentioned in the report. This review underscores the necessity for enhanced anti-money laundering practices to mitigate the risks of funding illegal activities and human rights violations.
China charges Myanmar Golden Triangle syndicate suspects with murder
Chinese authorities have made substantial strides in tackling cross-border cybercrime by charging 39 suspects, including 16 individuals from Myanmar, in connection with serious offences such as murder and telecom fraud linked to the significant Ming family. As reported by My News, these criminal factions reportedly coerced individuals into participating in telecom scams, generating millions of dollars daily. Since September, over 31,000 telecom fraud suspects have been extradited from Myanmar to China, revealing the extensive nature of these criminal operations, particularly in Myawaddy, a border town.
Myanmar is one of the world's biggest refugee contributor
The UNHCR has documented a troubling increase in the global refugee count, which has surpassed 122 million in 2024, a rise from 117.4 million in the previous year. UNO-Flüchtlingshilfe has characterised the situation as 'shocking,' reinforcing the urgent need for protective measures for those affected. Major contributing factors include the ongoing civil war in Sudan, displacing over 11.8 million individuals, in conjunction with crises in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Myanmar. Furthermore, conflicts in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon have resulted in the displacement of over 1.7 million people, further exacerbating the global refugee crisis, The Star reports.
