Chinese authorities have issued arrest warrants for 10 key figures leading telecom fraud rings operating in the Kokang region of Myanmar's Shan State, including U Bai Suocheng, former chairman of the Kokang Region Leading Body.

The newly targeted suspects are suspected of operating three separate family-based fraud rings, led by Bai Suocheng, Wei Huairen, and Liu Zhengxiang, as well as an additional group led by Xu Laofa.

The 10 suspects for which arrest warrants were issued are U Bai Suocheng, former chairman of the Kokang region, Bai Yingcang (aka Li Yunchen), captain of Kokang's militia brigade, Bai Yinglan (aka Li Mengna), chairperson of the Xinbaili group, U Wei Huairen, Wei Rong (aka Chen Rong), Liu Zhengmao, Liu Jiguang (aka Li Huaguang) and Liu Zhengmao

The police statement highlights the severity of the situation, stating that these "family criminal gangs" have engaged in widespread and long-term telecom fraud schemes targeting Chinese citizens. They are accused of openly carrying arms to shield their illegal activities, inflicting significant financial losses and generating public outrage.

Among the 10 suspects, eight are male and two are female. Six of them have registered addresses within Chinese cities.

The Public Security Ministry announced on December 10 that police are urging the suspects, all members of organized crime families, to surrender and face justice. Rewards ranging from 100,000 yuan ($13,700) to 500,000 yuan are available to individuals providing crucial information and assistance in their apprehension.

This operation follows the November 2023 issuance of arrest warrants and rewards for four leaders of a separate family-led gang headed by Ming Xuechang. In a coordinated effort with Myanmar authorities, Ming committed suicide before his arrest, while the remaining three were apprehended and are facing legal proceedings.