Recently, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of Thailand, Prawit, expressed his views at Don Mueang Airport regarding the Thai government's decision to cut off electricity, stop oil supply, and network services.
He stated that the protests initiated by the people of Myanmar are a response to these measures by Thailand. However, Prawit emphasized that the Thai government's decisions will not change as these measures aim to address cross-border telecommunications fraud, and Myanmar should negotiate with its government to resolve this issue.
Prawit further pointed out that these tough measures are intended to force the Myanmar government to eliminate telecom fraud gangs within its borders. Currently, the Thai authorities have ordered the suspects to leave the border areas and are closely monitoring Myanmar's response. Regarding Myanmar's decision to block the border and stop accepting Thai goods, Prawit responded that Myanmar should seriously consider its dependence on Thai essentials, and the Thai government's policy will not waver due to Myanmar's reaction.
Prawit also revealed that Thailand will go to the Phaya Tong Su area in Myanmar by February 12 to assess the situation, and then to the Poipet area in Cambodia on February 16 to decide on further actions. He added that Thailand has implemented blockade measures in key border areas, and the actions of cutting off electricity and networks might be further expanded.
Regarding the issue of fuel smuggling, Prawit stated that the Thai government has conducted strict patrols in 51 border counties nationwide, and all suspects involved in smuggling will be considered as conspiring with telecom fraud gangs.
Currently, fuel purchase restrictions have been implemented in Chiang Rai Province to prevent fuel smuggling. If necessary, related measures in other border areas will gradually expand, especially in those areas plagued by telecom fraud activities.
The Thai government's firm stance demonstrates its zero-tolerance attitude towards cross-border telecom fraud, and Prawit stated that despite protests from Myanmar, Thailand will continue to strengthen measures to ensure national security and public interest are not threatened.
