The Thai government has taken drastic measures against telecom fraud syndicates in Myanmar by cutting off electricity and internet, which quickly sparked strong protests from Myanmar and led to a boycott of Thai products in the Myanmar market.
However, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra made it clear that protecting the safety and interests of her country's citizens is her top priority, despite potential opposition from neighboring countries.
Strong Measures to Combat Cross-border Fraud
Anutin Charnvirakul, the Thai Minister of Interior, revealed that the Thai government has implemented measures to cut off electricity and internet supply in five regions of Myanmar, aiming to completely paralyze the cross-border telecom fraud network. This action has been highly praised by China, indicating support for Thailand's firm actions. Paetongtarn emphasized that cross-border fraud not only causes significant financial losses to Thailand but also poses a serious threat to global economic security, and Thailand must take uncompromising measures to protect its citizens from harm.
Myanmar's Protests and the Stubborn Resilience of Fraud Activities
Despite Thailand's measures to cut off power and internet, some casinos and online gambling platforms in the Myanmar border area continue to operate. Major General Asadawut Panyarachun, commander of the Thai Surasee Task Force, disclosed that these illegal operators have switched to using generators and solar panels for power and have started relying on Starlink satellite network services to bypass traditional network blockades. Meanwhile, some gambling activities have also moved from Myanmar to Cambodia and Laos to evade local government crackdowns.
Diplomatic Efforts to Promote Regional Cooperation
Paetongtarn revealed that she will soon officially visit Cambodia, where she will discuss anti-fraud issues with Cambodian leaders to strengthen regional cooperation. Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai emphasized that Thailand's power-cutting measures are just an initial strategy, and the government will continue to work closely with neighboring countries to develop long-term effective anti-fraud solutions.
This series of strong measures marks Thailand's determination in combating cross-border telecom fraud. Despite pressure from neighboring countries, the Thai government believes that only through sustained international cooperation and strong domestic measures can these global cross-border criminal activities be truly curbed.
