YANGON: A total of 543 Myanmar nationals repatriated from Cambodia were transported from Myeik to Yangon by the naval vessel Mottama, according to official sources.
The individuals were among Myanmar citizens suspected of involvement in online scam and illegal online gambling operations in Cambodia. They were first brought back to Myanmar by Myanmar military aircraft and arrived in Myeik, before being transferred onward to Yangon by sea.
Authorities said the repatriation process is being carried out under the guidance of Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission, following the handover of the individuals by Cambodian police and relevant departments to the Myanmar Embassy in Cambodia.
As of January 28, a total of 729 Myanmar nationals have been repatriated from Cambodia using Myanmar Airways International (MAI) flights and military aircraft.
Of these, 543 individuals who arrived in Myeik by military aircraft were transported by naval vessels from Seik Nge Bridge in Myeik to the naval ship Mottama, which had been waiting offshore near Maw Tone Gyi Village in Kyunsu Township.
The transfer and transportation process was overseen by the Commander of the Coastal Region Military Command, Major General Kyaw Kyaw Han, along with local administrative officials from Myeik District and Township.
The naval vessel Mottama departed on the night of January 27. During the voyage, officials provided repatriates with personal supplies, healthcare services, and food and accommodation arrangements, according to reports.
The vessel arrived at No. 3 Jetty in Yangon on the morning of January 28, where officials from the Thanlyin District Administration Committee, the Ministry of Immigration and Population, and the District Health Department carried out identity verification, health checks and medical assistance for those in poor health. Food supplies were also distributed by relevant departments.
Following arrival procedures, the repatriated individuals were transported by vehicles arranged by the Yangon Regional Government to designated assembly locations in Yangon.
Officials said further data collection, documentation and necessary investigations will be conducted in accordance with established procedures.
Previously, Myanmar authorities repatriated 136 nationals on January 23, 430 on January 25 (50 people via MAI and 380 via military aircraft), and 163 on January 26 via military aircraft, bringing the total number of returnees to 729.
The Myanmar government said it is handling the fight against online scams and illegal online gambling operations as a national priority, working closely with neighboring countries, regional partners, and international organisations to dismantle scam networks, arrest those involved, and take legal action against both local and foreign organisers.
The government added that humanitarian considerations and international cooperation continue to guide its repatriation and law enforcement efforts. - Eleven Media/ANN
