Illegal Gambling Boss She Zhijiang Approved for Extradition to China by Thai Court

She Zhijiang’s Extradition to China Confirmed by Thai Court

A Thai appeals court has ruled in favor of extraditing She Zhijiang to China. Beijing views She as a major figure in international crime, accusing him of overseeing more than 200 illegal online gambling platforms.

Charges and Allegations Against She Zhijiang

Thai prosecutors announced that She will be sent to China to face trial on charges related to illegal casino operations. Officials claim he established and managed 239 gambling websites, with capital circulation exceeding 12.63 trillion baht (approximately $385.65 billion). Additionally, She is accused of building and running two casinos in Shwe Kokko, Myanmar, where he allegedly enticed Chinese citizens to gamble via various online avenues.

She Zhijiang is one of the most prominent cybercrime suspects apprehended in Asia. Despite China’s history of prosecuting high-level scammers, including issuing death sentences, She remained at large until his arrest in Bangkok in August 2022, based on a 2014 Chinese warrant. He is currently detained at Klong Prem Central Prison in Thailand’s capital.

Thailand’s Strengthened Measures Against Illegal Gambling

Illegal cyber activities have flourished in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Cambodia and Myanmar, where law enforcement resources are limited. Casinos have frequently been centers for illegal conduct and became notorious during the COVID-19 pandemic as bases for online scams when physical gambling venues were closed. She gained notoriety through the Yatai New City project in Shwe Kokko, near the Thai border, which became infamous for cyber scams and human trafficking.

Following She’s arrest, a complex legal process unfolded in Thailand. He initially fought against extradition but was ultimately unsuccessful. She continues to assert his innocence, arguing that the charges are politically motivated and relate to alleged crimes from 2011, according to his attorney. The Thai Appeals Court issued its decision on November 6 and officially informed She and his legal team recently.

These legal developments coincide with Thailand’s recent intensified actions against gambling. During a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized his government’s firm opposition to gambling activities in the country.