Heroines at the border

An all-female team in Yunnan tackles transnational drug trafficking with resilience and unique insights, ensuring safer communities and stronger border security.

Growing up in Anhui, a peaceful province in East China, Lu Yao (pseudonym) had little exposure to the harsh realities of drug-related crimes in Southwest Yunnan, where trafficking thrives due to its long border with Myanmar, a hot spot for transnational drug activity.

However, during her years at China People's Police University, Lu became fascinated by anti-drug cases and chose this topic for her graduation thesis.

After earning her degree in border inspection, she made a bold decision to leave behind a stable job in her hometown and join the border management unit in Mangshi, located in Dehong Dai and Jingpo autonomous prefecture, Yunnan.