Myanmar Urges International Support to Repatriate Illegal Gambling Suspects
Myanmar’s Military Appeals for Repatriation of Detained Foreigners
Myanmar’s military authorities have recently appealed to the global community to assist in repatriating hundreds of foreign nationals who were detained during a widespread crackdown on fraudulent telecom operations and illegal online gambling activities.
Cracking Down on Online Gambling and Telecom Fraud
During a press briefing, Major General Zaw Min Tun, head of Myanmar’s National Defense and Security Council’s Information Team, described telecom fraud and online gambling as significant threats to the nation’s security. He emphasized that these crimes undermine public confidence, destabilize the economy, disrupt social order, and damage Myanmar’s international reputation. The government is firmly opposed to these illicit activities and is collaborating closely with other countries to address the issue.
Foreign Origins of Illegal Gambling Networks in Border Regions
Major General Zaw Min Tun explained that these illegal gambling and fraud operations were established not by locals but by foreigners who entered Myanmar through neighboring countries. These groups operate under the protection of armed insurgent factions in border areas where government control is limited. Key locations identified include Laukkai and Muse in northern Shan State, as well as Shwe Kokko, KK Park, and Chongkhaed in Kayin State.
Joint Efforts and International Cooperation Against Illegal Gambling
Since 2019, the rise of these criminal networks has accelerated, fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and ongoing political unrest that weakened regional security. Collaborative operations involving Myanmar and Chinese authorities in Laukkai and Muse have led to numerous arrests and repatriations. Additionally, a trilateral partnership with China and Thailand is ongoing in Myawady to combat these illicit networks.
Zero Tolerance Policy and Ongoing Appeals for International Support
Major General Zaw Min Tun reiterated Myanmar’s strict zero tolerance policy toward telecom fraud and online gambling. He warned that anyone involved will face the full extent of legal consequences. Furthermore, he urged countries with nationals currently detained in Myanmar to expedite their repatriation processes and stressed the necessity of continued international collaboration, acknowledging that Myanmar cannot resolve these issues alone.
Statistics on Detentions and Crackdowns
Deputy Minister for Home Affairs, Major General Aung Kyaw Kyaw, reported that since the crackdown’s initiation in January, over 13,000 foreigners from 47 countries have been detained. While most have been deported, around 1,655 remain in custody. In a recent large-scale raid, authorities apprehended more than 300 individuals involved in online gambling scams operating from a single location.
Myanmar’s Role in Global Cyber Scam Operations
Myanmar has become notorious as a base for cyber scams that exploit victims worldwide. These fraudulent schemes often involve building trust through romantic interactions before convincing individuals to invest in bogus financial programs. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, these criminal enterprises generate nearly $40 billion in revenue annually.
