China executed a series of Myanmese crime bosses. What does it say about its regional influence?

In all, 16 core members of mafia-like crime syndicates were put to death for a range of crimes, from murder to fraud and human trafficking.

While all of the victims in the cases were Chinese nationals, many of the condemned were citizens of Myanmar, a largely Buddhist country not known for executing crime bosses.

Yet, China was able to convince authorities in Myanmar to hand over suspects.

Observers said Southeast Asian countries might have little choice but to acquiesce, with China showing “merciless resolve” to protect the interests of its citizens abroad.