On November 6, 2025, a Thai appeals court authorized the extradition of She Zhijiang to China, marking a significant development in international efforts to combat transnational crime. She, a Chinese national, stands accused of orchestrating a sprawling network of over 200 illegal online gambling operations, which reportedly amassed a combined circulating capital of over 12.63 trillion baht, equivalent to approximately $385.65 billion.
The charges against She include the founding and management of 239 illicit gambling websites and the construction and operation of two casinos in Shwe Kokko, Myanmar. These operations allegedly targeted Chinese nationals, drawing them into illegal gambling activities through various online platforms. Described by Chinese authorities as a key player in cybercrime, She is one of the most prominent figures in Asia to be caught in the crackdown on illegal gambling activities.
Arrested in Bangkok in August 2022, She Zhijiang has been held at Klong Prem Central Prison. His detention followed a warrant issued by Chinese authorities in 2014, highlighting the long-standing nature of the allegations against him. Despite his arrest, She has consistently proclaimed his innocence, arguing that the charges are politically motivated and date back to alleged offenses from 2011.
The extradition decision aligns with Thailand’s increasing efforts to combat illegal gambling, especially as cybercrime has proliferated across Southeast Asia. The region, characterized by limited law enforcement capabilities in countries like Cambodia and Myanmar, has seen casinos become notorious for illicit operations, particularly accentuated during the COVID-19 pandemic when physical gambling faced restrictions.
She Zhijiang gained notoriety through the Yatai New City project in Shwe Kokko, situated near the Thai-Myanmar border. This development has been associated with cyber scams and human trafficking, adding to its infamy. The legal proceedings in Thailand that followed She’s arrest were lengthy and complex, culminating in the recent decision to extradite him to China despite his previous resistance to such a move.
She’s legal team argues that the extradition decision is influenced by political motivations, emphasizing that the accusations originate from more than a decade ago. Nevertheless, the Thai court’s ruling reflects a broader regional push to clamp down on gambling-related crimes, an agenda seemingly reinforced by recent diplomatic interactions between Thailand and China.
During a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul underscored Thailand’s firm stance against gambling. This commitment to combating illegal gambling activities may have influenced the legal outcomes of She’s case. The Thai government’s resolve to address these issues points to a strategic alignment with China’s efforts to eradicate transnational crime networks, particularly those exploiting digital platforms to perpetrate illegal activities.
The crackdown on illegal gambling in Southeast Asia involves significant challenges, including entrenched networks and the digital nature of modern-day operations, which often span multiple jurisdictions. Nevertheless, the decision to extradite a figure as prominent as She Zhijiang may serve as a deterrent, signaling to others involved in similar activities that no individual is beyond the reach of law enforcement efforts.
However, the situation is complex, with some observers cautioning against oversimplified narratives. They argue that while She’s extradition marks a victory against illegal gambling, it also highlights broader issues such as the need for regional cooperation and the establishment of robust legal frameworks to prevent such activities in the first place. The dynamics of power, corruption, and the socio-economic conditions in the region’s gambling hubs are factors that must be addressed to achieve long-term solutions.
Critics of the extradition warn that focusing solely on high-profile cases may not fully address the systemic nature of the problem. They advocate for comprehensive policy approaches that include regulation, enforcement, and, importantly, regional collaboration to dismantle the infrastructure that supports illegal gambling operations.
As She Zhijiang awaits his transfer to China, the international community observes closely, aware that the outcome may influence not only the future of illegal gambling operations in Southeast Asia but also the broader trajectory of transnational crime enforcement across the region.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
