Myanmar Military Busts Huge Illegal Gambling Operation, Arrests 346
Myanmar Military Launches Major Raid on Illegal Gambling Network
The Myanmar military has intensified its efforts to shut down large-scale illegal online gambling and fraud operations near its borders. A recent major raid on the Shwe Kokko area, located close to Thailand, resulted in the arrest of nearly 350 individuals and the confiscation of thousands of mobile phones.
Illegal Gambling Hubs Flourish in Myanmar’s Border Regions
Shwe Kokko is one of several extensive criminal zones situated in Myanmar’s conflict-affected border areas. These zones have evolved into centers for various scams, including business fraud, online gambling fraud, and other criminal schemes. It is estimated that these illicit activities generate tens of billions of dollars every year throughout East and Southeast Asia.
Experts explain that these operations thrive on both willing participants and trafficked workers from across the region. The lack of strong governance in territories overseen by armed groups and militias has allowed these criminal enterprises to expand. In the past, Myanmar’s military government was accused of permitting these centers to operate under the protection of allied militias, but increasing pressure from China has shifted this situation.
Pressure from China and the Challenge of Enforcement
China, heavily affected by these criminal networks as both victims and perpetrators, has been a driving force behind recent crackdowns. For example, Chinese officials recently pushed for the extradition of She Zhijiang, a prominent individual accused of running over 200 online gambling scams primarily based in Shwe Kokko.
Ongoing Struggles to Combat Illegal Gambling in Myanmar
A United Nations report recently estimated that victims in these regions lost approximately $37 billion in 2023 alone, with the actual global losses likely even greater. This highlights a stark contrast in Southeast Asia’s gambling landscape, where entrenched illegal operations still persist alongside growing efforts to establish regulated online gambling markets.
The Myanmar military attributes the proliferation of scam hubs to armed opposition groups, stating that effective intervention became possible only after they regained control in certain areas. Since February, the military has promoted a widespread crackdown. Analysts suggest this campaign may aim to improve diplomatic relations with China while delicately preserving profitable networks linked to allied militias. Some regional experts believe the military’s actions are carefully balanced to respond to China’s demands without completely dismantling lucrative illegal enterprises.
Meanwhile, several countries in the region are exploring regulations to legalize online gambling. However, genuine progress will require firm action against the long-standing illegal networks that have thrived with little resistance.
