The Thrive of Chinese Transnational Organized Crimes in Southeast Asia under OBORization and the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Case of Cambodia and K. K. Park Criminal Hub in Myanmar

Abstract

The study begins by examining the historical context and expansion of Chinese TOCs, such as the Triads, which have leveraged globalization to extend their criminal networks internationally. It highlights how the BRI, a massive infrastructure and investment project initiated by China, has inadvertently facilitated both legitimate and illegitimate business activities in Southeast Asia. The influx of Chinese capital and immigrants, particularly in Cambodia's Sihanoukville, has led to a surge in TOC activities, including online gambling, human trafficking, and money laundering. It further delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2021 Myanmar coup d'état on these criminal operations. The pandemic disrupted legitimate businesses, pushing TOCs to adapt and expand their illicit activities, while the political instability in Myanmar provided a fertile ground for these groups to relocate and thrive. The case of K. K. Park in Myanmar is a prime example of how infrastructure projects intended for economic development can be repurposed for criminal enterprises. The authors argue that the socio-economic integration between China and Southeast Asia, driven by OBORization, has created opportunities for TOCs, posing significant security and governance challenges. They call for enhanced international cooperation and robust policy measures to address the growing threat of TOCs in the region. The study concludes with suggestions for future research, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of economic development and organized crime dynamics to inform effective policy interventions.

Keywords: Transnational Organized Crimes, Southeast Asia, OBORization, COVID-9 Pandemic, Human Security