Recently, Myanmar has launched an operation in Daqili, successfully arresting 7 Thai nationals and 22 Burmese individuals suspected of involvement in illegal online gambling and fraud. This operation was carried out by the State Administration Council (SAC) of Myanmar, and the cases were disclosed in reports by the Daqili News Agency.
The operation took place from February 12 to 14, with all 29 suspects being detained. On February 12, the SAC conducted a raid on a building rented by a Thai national, arresting the first group of 16 Burmese individuals. The raid seized 61 laptops, 329 computer monitors, 90 CPUs, 90 mobile phones, and two unregistered vehicles.
On February 13, a second raid was conducted at another location in Daqili, capturing 13 suspects, including 7 Thai citizens. This operation also seized 50 computers, 300 mobile phones, 1 liter of opium juice, and 30 bottles of cough syrup.
It is understood that these illegal online gambling activities were operated by a Thai man residing in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and his wife. The report noted that many Thais and Chinese often went to work in the building that was raided.
This series of raids occurred against the backdrop of Thailand's decision to stop providing electricity, oil, and internet services to areas in Myanmar related to online gambling and fraud. On the evening of February 14, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha met with security officials, armed forces, and leaders of the Royal Thai Police. The meeting focused on how to combat call center fraud gangs, human trafficking, and drug trafficking at the border.
On February 15, Defense Ministry spokesperson Major General Thanathip Sawangsaeng stated that the meeting also discussed strengthening border security forces, aimed at maintaining the Thai government's decision to suspend electricity, oil, and internet services to five areas in Myanmar suspected of hosting fraud and gambling centers.
Additionally, Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai also attended the February 14 meeting. Participants stated that cutting off energy and internet services has proven to be an effective measure. Myanmar officials have reportedly proposed assisting in the repatriation of workers from border fraud centers.
Major General Thanathip added that the Prime Minister has asked the Border Policy Committee to accelerate actions and submit a progress report within a month.
