The prosecution of two prominent family-based criminal groups operating in northern Myanmar, targeting Chinese nationals, has commenced, with the Ministry of Public Security revealing that the funds involved exceed 24.6 billion yuan ($3.45 billion). This development marks a significant step in dismantling the notorious ‘Four Families’ criminal syndicates in Kokang, northern Myanmar. These groups have allegedly established numerous telecom fraud centers, engaging in a wide array of illegal activities, including fraud, illegal detention, extortion, casino operations, prostitution, and drug trafficking. Suspects from the Ming family have already been sentenced in a first-instance trial, while the Bai family’s case is now in its initial proceedings. The Wei family, implicated in crimes dating back to 2009, faces multiple charges, including fraud, intentional homicide, and drug trafficking. Similarly, the Liu family has been accused of fraud, extortion, and other serious offenses. Since July 2023, a special operation led by the Ministry of Public Security has resulted in the arrest of over 57,000 Chinese nationals suspected of fraud-related crimes. Joint law enforcement actions between China and Myanmar have been pivotal in these arrests, with Chinese authorities capturing key suspects at the Yunnan border. Investigations revealed that Chinese workers were often exploited, with ransoms demanded for their release. The criminal groups maintained control through armed personnel and harsh punishments for those who failed to meet quotas or attempted to escape. Despite ongoing regional conflicts, Chinese officers have conducted multiple investigations in Kokang, uncovering critical evidence, including victims’ remains and tools used in the crimes. Zhang Hanyi, deputy director of the Quanzhou Public Security Bureau, noted that while significant progress has been made, complete investigations remain challenging due to conditions abroad.