A Chinese court has handed down death sentences to five high-ranking members of a notorious mafia from Myanmar. This move highlights China’s ongoing efforts to crack down on scams in Southeast Asia.
The Bai family and their associates were found guilty of serious crimes, including fraud and homicide. In total, 21 members were convicted, as reported by state media. The Bai family rose to power in the 2000s, transforming the once-poor town of Laukkaing into a hub for casinos and illegal activities. Recently, they shifted to operating scams that left countless trafficked workers, many from China, in dire conditions.
Among those sentenced to death were mafia leader Bai Suocheng and his son Bai Yingcang. Two other members received suspended death sentences, while five received life imprisonment. Nine others got prison terms ranging from three to 20 years. The Bais controlled their own militia and managed 41 properties for their cyber scam and casino operations. Their activities involved over 29 billion Chinese yuan (about $4.1 billion) and led to tragic outcomes, including the deaths of six Chinese citizens.
These harsh sentences reflect China’s broader campaign to dismantle extensive scam networks in the region and send a stern message to other criminals. In a similar case in September, eleven members of another prominent local family were also sentenced to death.
Historically, the Bais gained influence with the backing of Myanmar’s military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, who wanted to stabilize Laukkaing after removing a previous warlord. Bai Yingcang boasted that their family was the most powerful in both politics and military affairs.
A chilling account from a worker at one of their scam centers revealed the extreme abuse faced by victims. He spoke of beatings, torture methods, and severe injuries, showcasing the dark side of these operations.
Bai Yingcang, implicated in drug trafficking as well, has faced a significant downfall as political dynamics shift in the region. This year, Chinese authorities have issued arrest warrants for key figures within these criminal families, signaling a determined effort to root out such organizations.
As an investigator noted in a recent documentary, the crackdown serves as a warning: no one is above the law, and those who commit heinous acts against Chinese citizens will face consequences.
For further details, refer to the BBC article on the Ming family, which discusses similar criminal activities in the region.
