China has executed several Myanmar criminals. What does that say about their regional influence?

Last Updated on February 8, 2026 8:01 pm

By Sylvie Zhuang in Beijing

In less than a week, China has carried out executions on a scale rarely seen in recent decades.

Sixteen key members of a mafia-like crime syndicate have been sentenced to death for crimes ranging from murder to fraud and human trafficking.

While all of the victims in the case were Chinese citizens, many of the convicted were from Myanmar, a predominantly Buddhist country not known for executing criminal leaders.

Still, China was able to persuade Myanmar authorities to hand over the suspects.

Observers say Southeast Asian countries may have no choice but to comply, as China has shown a “ruthless determination” to protect the interests of its citizens abroad.

Bai Yingkang was one of the Myanmar citizens sentenced to death earlier this month.

Source :SCMP