Myanmar combats online scams and gambling activities

THE government of Myanmar continues its decisive actions against online fraud and illegal activities, particularly those involving individuals who en­ter the country without prop­er documentation. Efforts are underway to identify and de­port such individuals to their respective countries.

 

The government prioritiz­es national stability, peace and the rule of law. In some border regions, certain foreign nation­als, including those connected to ethnic armed organizations have exploited the situation for personal gain. They have been involved in extensive online scams and gambling opera­tions. Authorities are focusing on investigating, uncovering and deporting individuals in­volved in these illegal activ­ities.

 

Through scrutiny, the majority of illegal entrants discovered in Myanmar have been found to have crossed through neighbouring coun­tries including Thailand. They entered Myanmar for illegal employment opportunities. While these individuals en­tered unlawfully, the govern­ment, taking into considera­tion human compassion and international solidarity has ensured they are processed under the law and sent back to their home countries.

 

In recent operations in Kayin State, Myanmar author­ities uncovered a network of online scams and gambling activities, leading to the iden­tification of 61 foreign nation­als involved in these crimes. These included 39 Chinese nationals, one from Kazakh­stan, five from Indonesia, one from Ethiopia, one from Paki­stan, one from Malaysia and 13 from India. After a thorough investigation, these individu­als were transferred back to Thailand according to official procedures.

 

Upon questioning, they were reportedly recruited for computer-related tasks, trans­lation work, and other servic­es, lured by promises of high wages. These individuals were exploited through online plat­forms, coerced into participat­ing in fraudulent schemes and then moved through various border points. The illegal traf­ficking ring including the facili­tation of illicit border crossings is being closely monitored by Myanmar authorities.

The government remains committed to collaborating with neighbouring countries and international agencies to root out online scams and gambling networks. Efforts to gather information from local and regional sources are being strengthened with an empha­sis on swift communication of any relevant intelligence. This comprehensive approach aims to eliminate these criminal activities and ensure national security. — MNA/KZL