Government Outlines Multinational Operations, Mass Repatriations and Demolition of Illegal Compounds in Border Regions
Myanmar’s authorities have presented a detailed account of their nationwide campaign to dismantle large-scale telecom fraud and online gambling networks, outlining the scope of operations during a press conference in Yangon attended by domestic and international media. As reported by The Global New Light of Myanmar, senior government officials, security leaders and police representatives described the effort as a sustained, multi-year response to what they characterised as transnational criminal enterprises operating in fragile border regions.
Major General Zaw Min Tun, spokesperson for the National Defence and Security Council’s Information Team, stated that illegal online fraud and gambling operations did not originate domestically but were established by foreign nationals who entered Myanmar via neighbouring countries. According to the government, these groups embedded themselves in areas with limited state administration and operated under the protection of armed insurgent organisations. Identified hotspots included Laukkai and Muse in northern Shan State, as well as Shwe Kokko, KK Park and Chongkhaed in Kayin State.
Officials explained that the scale of criminal activity expanded significantly after 2019, driven by pandemic-related disruptions and subsequent political instability that weakened local security structures. In response, Myanmar intensified cooperation with regional partners. Joint operations with China in Laukkai and Muse resulted in mass arrests and repatriations, while trilateral coordination with China and Thailand continues in the Myawady area.
Government figures presented at the briefing indicated that between October 2023 and December 2025, a total of 70,135 foreign nationals from 54 countries were repatriated after being linked to scam and illegal gambling operations. In Kayin State alone, authorities reported that 13,272 individuals were rescued from scam compounds during 2025.
A central element of the campaign has been the physical dismantling of infrastructure used by criminal groups. Officials confirmed that 413 buildings in KK Park and Shwe Kokko have been demolished to prevent re-establishment of operations, despite resistance from insurgent forces attempting to obstruct law enforcement activities. Further demolitions are planned as security conditions allow.
Beyond fraud and gambling, the government framed the campaign as part of a broader strategy against human trafficking, narcotics and money laundering. Myanmar cited ongoing collaboration through ASEAN, BIMSTEC and Mekong regional mechanisms as critical to addressing cross-border crime.
Major General Zaw Min Tun reiterated the government’s “zero tolerance” stance, warning that individuals involved in telecom fraud and online gambling would face full legal consequences. He also urged countries whose nationals remain detained to accelerate repatriation processes and called for sustained international cooperation, emphasising that Myanmar “cannot solve the problem alone.”
