Southeast Asia has seen an increase in online gambling and fraud in recent years, with effects that go beyond national boundaries. Myanmar has made the eradication of these acts a national priority after identifying them as a threat. According to the Myanmar’s Ministry of Information, the international community impacted by these crimes as well as domestic interests are the focus of its efforts. Criminal networks engaged in internet gambling and fraud are being dismantled by security services, government agencies, and municipal authorities, frequently under difficult circumstances.
Online crime networks began appearing in parts of Southeast Asia around 2015. As conflicts escalated in neighbouring regions, these groups moved to areas near the Thai-Myanmar border, taking advantage of political instability and weak border controls. A substantial number of organisers are Chinese nationals, making the issue transnational. Thousands of people were reportedly lured through social media with promises of high-paying jobs, only to be trafficked and forced into scam operations. Victims include job seekers from multiple countries, migrants, and fugitives coerced into participating in online fraud schemes.
According to government reports, many operators entered Myanmar illegally through Thailand and other neighbouring countries. Authorities say Chinese-led groups recruited workers via social media, drawing in trafficked individuals from multiple nations as well as people evading prosecution. These scam and gambling networks have operated across Southeast Asia for nearly a decade, relocating to the Myawaddy region amid instability.
Similar operations later concentrated around KK Park and Shwe Kokko near the Thailand–Myanmar border. Officials report that both areas contained casino-style gaming systems, crypto-linked payment channels, and residential blocks used by criminal groups. A total of 635 illegal buildings were identified, with 148 demolished as of 17 November using heavy machinery and controlled blasting. Video documentation was shared with Thai authorities to address concerns about cross-border debris.
During this week’s operation in Shwe Kokko, security forces arrested 346 foreign nationals and seized equipment linked to unlicenced gaming and telecom fraud. Some individuals attempted to cross into Thailand, prompting tighter border monitoring. Authorities say further inspections and enforcement measures will continue in the coming weeks.
On 18 November, the State Government issued an order banning all forms of online crime in Shwe Kokko. Joint inspection teams comprising security forces, administrative bodies, and other stakeholders began clearance operations immediately.
Many operators entered Myanmar through unauthorised border crossings from Thailand and other neighbouring countries. Senior figures, mostly Chinese nationals, oversee these networks and manage operations behind the scenes. As enforcement increased in some regions, these groups relocated to avoid crackdowns, shifting operations from Laukkai to Myawaddy.
Myanmar, Thailand, and China adopted a trilateral approach for intelligence sharing, border control coordination, and joint countermeasures. Myanmar conducted military clearance operations in KK Park last October using counter-terror tactics. Security forces now control the area to prevent the return of criminal or armed groups.
Between October 2023 and November 2025, Myanmar repatriated 68,009 illegal residents from 52 countries. Human rights concerns guided repatriation efforts. Even though many entered illegally, Myanmar prioritised lawful and humane treatment.
Suspended portions of the Shwe Kokko project became strategic hideouts. Criminals also misused sites linked to Myanmar Yatai International Holding Group and converted areas such as Chongkhaed Garden Resort and Kyaukkat Village into online crime hubs due to their isolation and connectivity.
Precautions are in place to prevent debris from crossing into neighbouring territory. Video documentation of demolitions has been shared with the neighbouring country to maintain transparency and address concerns.
On 14 November 2025, six nations, China, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, met in Kunming to strengthen cooperation against online fraud. The coalition aims to dismantle criminal networks, improve intelligence sharing, protect trafficking victims, and enhance regional security.
Authorities stress the importance of public cooperation in combating online crime. Citizens are urged to report suspicious digital activities, illegal gambling operations, human trafficking cases, and scam networks to help protect communities.
#OnlineCrime #IllegalGambling #SoutheastAsia #CrossBorderCrime #RegionalSecurity
Welcome to Gambling Consulting Authority (GCA) - Your Strategic Partner in Gambling Industry Advancement
