As Myanmar hunts down foreign citizens illegally living in the border areas, a total of 1,042 Chinese nationals—982 men and 60 women— were found living illegally in the country, so they were handed over to China on November 20 after scrutiny in accord with the law, the information team of the State Administration Council (SAC) reported.

“Today, 982 Chinese men and six Chinese women totaling 1,042 were transferred to the People’s Republic of China. From October 31 to November 20 also 1917 men, 142 women totalling 2,059 were handed over to China. I would like to say that we are cooperating with neighboring China for border peace and stability and the rule of law,” said Major General Zaw Min Tun, spokesperson for the SAC.

The SAC has already issued a statement saying that the government is focusing on state stability and the rule of law, and some foreigners are illegally entering Myanmar through border areas. Therefore, administrative bodies are making necessary inspections and transferring back illegal immigrants to relevant countries for legal proceedings.

It has also stated that the process of hunting down and transferring illegal immigrants will continue.