The number of undocumented Chinese nationals in Payathonzu has significantly declined following a directive issued by the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA), according to a DKBA official. Many have reportedly left the area and returned to their home country.
Captain Saw Nay La, commander of DKBA’s Strategic Security Battalion 1, told the Independent Mon News Agency that around 80 Chinese nationals were recently transported out of the area via the Myawaddy–Shwe Kokko route. Additionally, many Kokang Chinese individuals holding Myanmar National Registration Cards with the prefix “13/” have voluntarily left.
While the number of Chinese nationals has significantly decreased, DKBA has stated that those remaining in Payathonzu after February will be detained and handed over to the relevant authorities.
“As of now, there are very few Chinese left. The final deadline is February 28. After that, if any remain, our superiors will decide how to handle the situation. If they need to be detained, they will be. If they need to be repatriated, they will be,” Captain Saw Nay La explained.
He further noted that most of the Chinese nationals in Payathonzu were Kokang Chinese.
On February 9, DKBA issued a directive ordering all casino and restaurant businesses in Payathonzu to cease operations and vacate the area by the end of February.
However, sources indicate that Chinese nationals are still temporarily relocating to areas near DKBA-controlled facilities, including Kyone Kwee, Kyaw Palu, and Chaungzone villages, as well as the Htilaungsue waterfall near Bhudda Mountain, about 15 kilometers from Payathonzu.
A local resident reported that DKBA is assisting Chinese nationals who wish to travel to Shwe Kokko, while those who do not leave must stay in designated DKBA-prepared accommodations. “Many Chinese are moving to DKBA’s facilities,” the resident said.
Meanwhile, Thai authorities continue their crackdown on cross-border cyber fraud operations. Electricity, fuel, and internet access remain cut off in Myanmar border areas, affecting local communities.
Due to Thai pressure, the Border Guard Force (BGF) in Myawaddy and Shwe Kokko has handed over foreign victims of human trafficking from illegal scam operations to Thai authorities. These individuals are then repatriated through Mae Sot Airport.
Additionally, between January 30 and February 23, 2025, the Myanmar military junta reported identifying 2,200 undocumented foreign nationals in Myawaddy Township, of whom 673 were deported through Thailand to their respective countries.
