Myanmar participates in 159th joint Mekong River patrol to combat cross-border crime
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Htet Nadi(NP News)Nov 30
Myanmar, China, Laos, and Thailand on Tuesday launched their 159th coordinated patrol along the Mekong River to strengthen regional efforts against cross-border crime, according to Xinhua.
The operation began around 9 am of November 25 with Chinese patrol vessels departing from Jingha Port in Yunnan Province. Myanmar’s patrol boats set off from Wan Pong Port, while Lao vessels departed from Muang Mo Port, all heading toward a designated sector of the river.
More than 100 law enforcement personnel from the four countries, alongside seven patrol vessels, are taking part in the mission. The patrol emphasizes joint land and water inspections to address transnational crimes, including drug trafficking, smuggling, fraud, and illegal immigration.
During the operation, officials from Myanmar, China, Laos, and Thailand will hold an information-exchange meeting in Chiang Saen, Thailand, to review the security situation in the Lancang-Mekong region and plan future joint measures.
The Mekong River known as the Lancang River in China is a vital waterway for regional trade. Myanmar and its neighboring countries have been conducting these joint patrols since December 2011 to strengthen security and cross-border cooperation. –