THE Government is prioritizing national stability, peace and the rule of law by taking decisive action against telecom fraud and online gambling syndicates, which have emerged as serious transnational crimes causing widespread harm worldwide.
In certain border areas, foreign nationals have been committing online scam and gambling networks with the involvement of self-interested individuals from affiliated areas, including ethnic armed organizations (EAOs). In response, the Tatmadaw, Myanmar Police Force and relevant departmental officials have been conducting coordinated searches, inspections and arrests while facilitating the repatriation of foreign offenders in line with bilateral friendship and cooperation.From 5 October 2023 to date, authorities have arrested 947 Thai nationals, comprising 529 men and 418 women, who illegally entered border areas in Shan and Kayin states to engage in online fraud and gambling activities.Investigations found that many had initially been recruited through online advertisements promising high-paying jobs in online gambling operations.
They subsequently targeted fellow Thai citizens, particularly those with limited technological knowledge or financial awareness, through fake business and investment opportunities, fraudulent lucky draws, prize promotions, online gambling advertisements and bogus employment offers.On 31 October 2026, authorities arrested 83 Thai nationals, including 42 men and 41 women, at the Yuwarat Hotel on Sabai Street in Sanseng Ward (B), Tachilek, Shan State. They also seized 23 all-inone computers, 40 laptops and 141 mobile phones used in the operations.Further interrogation revealed that the group had specifically targeted Thai electricity consumers by impersonating employees of Thailand’s Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA).
They contacted victims through telephone calls and SMS messages, claiming that electricity meters needed replacement or that consumers were entitled to refunds of meter deposits. Victims were instructed to contact designated Line application accounts for assistance.To gain their trust, the scammers collected personal information, including names, addresses, meter numbers and electricity payment receipts, and sent forged notices bearing the PEA’s name. They then directed interested victims to counterfeit PEA Line accounts, where they requested payment receipts, account numbers and bank details.After assessing victims’ financial capacity through their conversations, the scammers sent links and QR codes for a fraudulent PEA payment application. Once victims installed the application, scanned the QR codes and transferred money, the perpetrators blocked their accounts and cut off all communication. Investigators also discovered that the syndicates had obtained databases containing personal information of Thai residents registered with the PEA, enabling them to systematically identify and target potential victims.
The Government has established dedicated committees to ensure that detained foreign nationals who entered Myanmar illegally are screened, prosecuted in accordance with the law and deported to their respective countries without delay. Authorities are also cooperating with foreign governments to expedite the repatriation of distressed and trafficked foreign nationals.As online fraud and gambling increasingly threaten international economic, social and security sectors, Myanmar authorities have pledged to continue taking strict legal action against the criminal networks. The public is urged to report suspicious activities to relevant authorities and cooperate with security forces and departmental officials in ongoing search and investigation operations.
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