Our country, Myanmar, shares a long border area of land and water territories with neighbouring countries due to geographical conditions. Taking advantage of these border areas, unscrupulous businesspersons and the organizations opposing the government traffic commodities as illegal trade activities through illegal entry and exit crossings. These illegal trade activities hinder the economic development of the State and the progress of socioeconomic improvement of the people. It causes the loss of revenue for the State, harming the operation of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at home. Consequently, such an act affects the production and employment opportunities of the State and ethnic entrepreneurs. That is why it can be seen that people experience loss of job opportunities and an increasing number of unemployed. The people are facing the impacts of the inflation rate of currency and rising prices of commodities based to booming illegal trade activities. Furthermore, the illegal trade can affect the measures of security and the rule of law being implemented by the State. As such, it is necessary to effectively and clearly combat illegal trade activities as a national duty. The State Administration Council has reconstituted the Illegal Trade Eradication Steering Committee since December 2021. Under the guidance of the steering committee, illegal trade eradication task forces were set up in regions and states, while the Customs Department has been taking a leading role in the OSS in cooperation with relevant departments in prevention, seizure and checking functions against the illegal trade activities. Despite carrying out restrictive prevention and seizing, illegal trade activities have not disappeared yet. Different amounts of trade volume and value can be seen in comparing with the trade data obtained from neighbouring countries. Unscrupulous businesspersons are seeking various ways and means to commit illegal trade activities. Currently, a serious situation is found where foodstuffs and personal goods labelled with fake trademarks are being sold in the market at home. It is very dangerous for the people who use and consume foodstuffs, cosmetics and medicines labelled with fake trademarks without any recommendations of health authorities. Moreover, the distribution and sales of these domestically-manufactured foodstuffs and personal goods labelled with fake trademarks can harm the long-term interests of MSME businesses. It has been observed that unscrupulous businesspersons are taking advantage of the current situation along the country’s border routes to intensify illegal trade activities. At the same time, it supports illegal online gambling operations in border areas. According to bilateral trade data and records of seizures, these findings have been confirmed. It is therefore necessary to effectively prevent and control illegal activities along border routes, and illegal trade, trafficking, and sales of goods on social media platforms must not be overlooked. The booming illegal trade and trafficking through the online platform can result in loss of revenue for the State. Trading of low-quality commodities, foodstuffs, cosmetics and medicines without recommendations of health authorities can harm the health and socioeconomic life of the people. As such, it can be said that these illegal trade activities become a very dangerous challenge for the State and the people. According to information from the illegal trade eradication task forces, seizures have included not only motorcycles, motor vehicles, and machinery, but also narcotic drugs and prohibited chemicals. Although illegal trade activities have been widespread, the situation has gradually come under control. Illegal trade causes losses and damage to every perspective — public health, social and economic development, and national progress. Therefore, it is essential for all citizens to actively participate in preventing and combating such activities effectively. To ensure that illegal trade is completely eradicated, collective efforts are required. At the same time, extensive public awareness campaigns must be carried out so that the entire population understands the need to prevent and curb these illegal activities. At present, the Illegal Trade Eradication Steering Committee, formed by the State and illegal trade eradication task forces, are effectively preventing and combatting illegal trade activities. On the other hand, State-owned newspapers and FM radios mention telephone numbers and e-mail addresses for people to inform the authorities about illegal trade activities. The State presents deserved rewards to dutiful people for their information about the illegal trade activities. As such, people are urged to actively participate with a patriotic spirit and national unity in efforts to eliminate illegal trade for the sake of national development and the socioeconomic progress of citizens. People are also encouraged to cooperate in the eradication of illegal trade by making use of the rewards granted by the State for providing information. Translated.
The online scam and online gambling operations did not originate in Myanmar, but are transnational crimes that avaricious people from other countries have established themselves on the borders of some Southeast Asian countries, and are operating illegally. The criminals leading these transnational crimes are foreign nationals, using other nationals to commit crimes. They are linked to major crimes such as human trafficking, human smuggling, forced labour, money laundering, and arms smuggling, threatening not only the region but also the entire world.In Myanmar, online scam operations gangs have infiltrated the area where the government’s administrative machinery has not yet functioned properly, but some armed insurgent groups have operated. Then, the related crimes, including online fraud, have emerged. Hence, the government has not viewed this issue as a simple crime, but has decisively suppressed it. It has been evidenced by the number of cases arrested, the number of foreign nationals involved, the number of Myanmar citizens who illegally cooperated, and the amount of related equipment seized.The government has taken the fight against online fraud and online gambling, which pose a threat to Myanmar and the world, as a national responsibility, and is vigorously and decisively suppressing it, while also reporting publicly on the actions taken.This is done in accordance with the law to protect the future younger generation of the country from crime and to fully safeguard the lives and property of the people. It is also a matter of responsibility and accountability to cooperate with neighbouring countries to prevent the spread of cross-border crimes across international borders through Myanmar.Like a military operation, the government is cracking down on the online fraud and online gambling being operated by online scam operation gangs, which have infiltrated the armed insurgents-controlled areas where the government’s administrative mechanism is not fully functioning.In order to eradicate online fraud in border areas and prevent it from spreading domestically, the ‘The Central Supervisory Committee on Combatting Telecom Fraud and Online Gambling’ and the ‘Anti-Scam Centre (ASC)’ have been established. They are carrying out tasks such as drafting standard operating procedures for combatting and suppressing online fraud, handing over illegal foreign immigrants involved in the online fraud to their home countries, taking effective and harsh action against the main offenders at home and abroad, and cooperating with the international community.We have seen and heard that the dollar-seeking pessimist media outlets opposing the government and turning a blind eye to these activities are spreading fake news and misinformation to tarnish the reputation of the government’s efforts to eradicate online scam operations, and to mislead the public and the international community.Citing a 2024 report by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), the pessimist media coverage exaggerated the baseless allegations accusing that Myanmar is a major hub for online criminal gangs in order to mislead the public.Although social media platforms have spread misinformation alleging that online money fraud criminal gangs are still operating in Myanmar, we would like to affirm that the government, in reality, is not turning a blind eye to these issues or is not involved in them from behind the scenes. Even the USIP organization has officially recognized that the Myanmar government has been eradicating the online scam operation gangs in northern Shan State since 2023.In addition, the government has publicly announced in a press release that harsh action will be taken without prejudice to anyone if any government officials are found to be involved in bribery in such cases. Since these heinous acts, which have caused great suffering not only to Chinese people but also to Myanmar people, are transnational in nature, the government is making every effort to identify and take action against such criminals.To eradicate such a serious problem of online scam operations, the government is not only working by itself but also collaborating with neighbouring countries. In particular, in close cooperation with China’s police force, the government successfully conducted a special operation called ‘Operation Storm’ during the period from late 2023 to 2024. It completely crushed hundreds of online scam operations in northern Shan State.According to field investigations, the real truth is that Myanmar did not create the online fraud operations itself, but rather foreign criminal gangs took advantage of the instability in the border region to establish a safe haven. The Myanmar government has not officially granted the members of the online scam operation gangs, nor has it accepted them as guests, and is demonstrating to the world that it has eradicated them through military operations like ‘Operation Storm’ and the ‘Border Safety Operation’. We would like to clearly inform the international community that Myanmar is not a centre for the online scam operations, as pessimists accuse, but rather “a fighter against the encroachments by evil doers”.In order to effectively take legal action against the main offenders, Myanmar Police Force officials systematically handed them over to the Yunnan Provincial Police of the People’s Republic of China, and thousands of people were safely handed over to their home countries.Not only that, a special task force was formed among Myanmar, China, and Thailand. Then, an effective action plan was also drawn up, leading to a joint trilateral military operation during the period from 1 April 2023 to 16 June 2023. In addition, Myanmar is continuously working with international law enforcement organizations to combat online fraud cases. Therefore, today, Myanmar is internationally recognized as a country that is standing at the forefront of the global fight against online fraud crimes, alongside its neighbouring countries.This recognition is due to the decisive actions of the Anti-Scam Centre, which, as per the continuous guidance of the Head of State, has conducted raids, arrests, and technological control, with the cooperation between the Tatmadaw and the Myanmar Police Force, at locations of online scam operations across various towns and villages, including border areas, to combat online scam operations.In terms of technological control, the government is taking measures such as blocking IP address related to online scam operations, freezing of thousands of bank accounts, anti-measures for cryptocurrency and advanced money laundering, raids based on location of unauthorized Internet Bandwidth, monitoring and seizing money flows through illegal money transfer (Hundi) networks, and blocking unauthorized satellite internet services used in border areas.The Tatmadaw and Myanmar Police Force are rapidly carrying out a joint operation called Border Safety Operation against the online scam operation gangs that have been sheltered in the territory of the KNU terrorists. In particular, the buildings built to protect the online scam operations in the Myawady-Mae Htaw Tha Lay (KK Park) and Shwe Kokko areas were completely demolished with large machinery, and the photos and video files of the demolition have been broadcast internationally.This is irrefutable evidence of the rapid demolition and removal records by the government through joint military operations. In the Myawady-Mae Htaw Tha Lay (KK Park) area, 635 illegal buildings used for criminal activities had been completely demolished, using state-of-the-art technology and legal authority.Following such a decisive crackdown, foreign nationals exploited by online scam operation gangs are being systematically transferred to their home countries in accordance with existing laws and procedures, based on humanitarian considerations and friendly relations between the countries.According to the testimonies of foreigners rescued in Kayin State, they were trafficked through routes such as entering Thailand by air and being transported from Bangkok to Mae Sot by vehicle/plane, illegally crossing the Thaungyin River through Mae Sot and being transported to companies in Myawady, Kayin State. They also arrived at Yangon International Airport in Myanmar with different visa types and were transported by vehicle to companies in Myawady, Kayin State. Although relevant embassies were asked for help by presenting their citizens as victims of human trafficking, some of them are not victims of human trafficking but rather people who come to work for their own benefit.From 5 October 2023 to 24 March 2026, the government took action against online fraud and online gambling sites, including those who illegally entered Myanmar, and handed 71,975 foreigners involved in online scam operations over to their home countries in accordance with procedures.Just as foreign nationals are being transferred to their home countries on humanitarian grounds, Myanmar citizens who are involved in online fraud and gambling are being effectively prosecuted in accordance with existing laws to eradicate the issue of online scam operations. The arrested local offenders are being prosecuted and taken harsh legal actions under relevant sections of the Electronic Transactions Law and the Gambling Act.In fact, solid evidence clearly shows that those involved in the online scam operations manipulated by avaricious foreigners are ethnic armed terrorist organizations. In particular, the KNU, a terrorist organization, has provided a safe haven to illegal criminals in the areas they control, allowing them to operate online money fraud operations for their own benefit. The story of the online scam operations in Kayin State begins with the fact that the illegal land lease agreement was signed by the KNU Finance Committee in charge, Pado Kwe Htoo Win (current chairman), and the second witness, Pado Saw Roger Khin, personally signed the agreement, clearly proving their unjust actions for their own benefit.According to field investigations, the real truth is that Myanmar did not create the online fraud operations itself, but rather foreign criminal gangs took advantage of the instability in the border region to establish a safe haven. The Myanmar government has not officially granted the members of the online scam operation gangs, nor has it accepted them as guests, and is demonstrating to the world that it has eradicated them through military operations like ‘Operation Storm’ and the ‘Border Safety Operation’. We would like to clearly inform the international community that Myanmar is not a centre for the online scam operations, as pessimists accuse, but rather “a fighter against the encroachments by evil doers”.The Myanmar government’s decisive crackdown on online scam operations is an undeniable reality that no one can deny. The statistics of tens of thousands of arrests and the solid record of systematic transfers to neighbouring countries strongly demonstrate the strong endeavours of the government.Accordingly, the government will continue to stand firmly at the forefront of the global war against cybercrime and make efforts to combat it as a national responsibility. We urge the international community to actively cooperate with Myanmar’s efforts to combat the online fraud operations, which is proven by facts and figures, rather than one-sided criticism of these achievements from a mistaken perspective.gnlm
At present, the Government is making concerted efforts to ensure nationwide peace and tranquillity and to secure the long-term, sustainable fruits of peace. These efforts are being carried out through the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) framework as part of the peace process. Despite these constructive initiatives, it is deeply regrettable that armed terrorist groups are destroying the long-cherished dream of peace of local people residing in Kachin State.In particular, the KIA insurgent group, which does not represent the will and aspirations of the Kachin population as a whole, has turned its back on dialogue and the government’s peace process and has chosen to persistently pursue the path of armed conflict. Their actions not only directly undermine the socioeconomic development opportunities of the different ethnic communities living peacefully in Kachin State but also clearly disrupt regional stability and peace. Notably, they have deliberately targeted civilian infrastructure unrelated to military affairs with the apparent intention of paralyzing the government’s administrative machinery in Kachin State and the northern part of Sagaing Region.The insurgent and terrorist groups have targeted and destroyed roads and bridges essential for public transportation, communication facilities and electricity transmission towers vital for information flow and power supply, as well as schools and hospitals that serve as fundamental institutions for children’s education and public healthcare. These attacks include reckless mine attacks, electrically-initiated rocket attacks, and drone attacks. Such attacks have not only inflicted direct harm upon the daily socioeconomic lives of residents but have also caused severe damage to the region’s future development prospects.MNA’s ATR-72-600 passenger aircraft attacked by KIA insurgents and PDF terroristsThe attack on Myitkyina Airport that took place at approximately 8:12 pm on 20 February could not be ignored as an ordinary case. On that evening, an ATR 72-600 passenger aircraft operated by Myanmar National Airlines (MNA), carrying more than 70 passengers, was preparing to depart from Myitkyina Airport for Mandalay. During these preparations, a joint terrorist group comprising the KIA and the PDF groups launched a sudden FPV suicide drone attack. This act clearly constituted a deliberate and targeted terrorist attack intended to endanger the lives of innocent, unarmed civilian passengers.The recent attack on Myitkyina Airport was not the first attack committed by the KIA. On 12 February, similar suicide drone attacks were launched against the airport. At the time, the drones were successfully intercepted by installed security jamming systems, causing them to crash onto the runway without any casualties or damage to aircraft. However, the KIA group deliberately timed their second attempt precisely to attack the aircraft at the arrival time, reportedly overcoming the frequency range of the security jammers.In such a highly dangerous situation, the timely response of the Myanmar Armed Forces and security personnel proved crucial. Their swift evacuation of passengers to safe locations and the systematic execution of necessary rescue operations ensured that no passengers or crew members suffered casualties.Passenger aircraft serve as an essential means of transportation for the general public and are not legitimate military targets. The KIA terrorist group is fully aware of this fact. Nevertheless, following the first airport attack, the KIA group denied responsibility through social media platforms in an illogical and brazen manner. However, the truth cannot be concealed. Based on the drone debris recovered from the 12 February incident, authorities identified with credible evidence that the drones were of a type primarily used by the KIA and manufactured abroad.After the second attack, the KIA’s shameless propaganda became even more apparent. Through social media platforms, they alleged that Myitkyina Airport was being used to transport military rations and weapons, claiming this as justification for their actions. It does bring into question: if passenger aircraft operating from Myitkyina Airport were indeed transporting military supplies, what then is the purpose of military aircraft and helicopters stationed at the Nampong Air Base, where supplies could be delivered without public visibility? Using such a pretext to attack civilian aircraft and a civilian airport is an extremely heinous act.Due to the sabotage of the KIA and the PDF groups, residents across Kachin State are facing severe transportation difficulties. Major roadways connecting Mandalay, Shwebo, Mohnyin, Mogaung, and Myitkyina, as well as Mandalay, Madaya, Shwegu, Bhamo, and Myitkyina, have reportedly been disrupted by mine attacks. Along an alternative detour through the forest, illegal checkpoints, extortion, and forced recruitment by the KIA and PDF groups have allegedly occurred, causing civilians to avoid overland travel due to safety concerns. River transport along the Ayeyawady River connecting Mandalay, Shwegu and Myitkyina has also reportedly been disrupted by frequent attacks on civilian vessels under accusations that they were being used by the military, further limiting transportation options.Under such circumstances, air travel had become the only safe and reliable transport link for residents of Kachin State. The KIA itself and everyone might have understood that people from diverse ethnic communities residing in the state rely on air travel primarily to reach major cities such as Mandalay and Yangon.As a consequence of these recent reckless attacks by KIA and PDF terrorist groups, Myitkyina Airport has now been temporarily closed. The principal lifeline relied upon by the local population has been abruptly severed. This has resulted in significant hardships in travel and the flow of goods, severely impacting socioeconomic conditions. Public concerns and anxieties expressed on social media platforms reflect the depth of these challenges.The KIA’s attack specifically targeted a civilian passenger aircraft unrelated to any military objective, and was deliberately timed to coincide with its arrival. This was not merely an act of disruption with civilian travel, but it was an attempt that could have caused mass casualties and the destruction of an entire aircraft carrying innocent passengers.Under the fundamental principles of the Geneva Conventions, civilian infrastructure and public transport systems not directly engaged in military operations are expressly protected from attack, both in peacetime and wartime. From the perspective of international law, the deliberate attack against a civilian airport and an unarmed passenger aircraft constitutes an act of inhumanity and may amount to a war crime.Accordingly, these attacks by the KIA and PDF terrorist groups highlight a blatant disregard for international norms and legal standards. Direct threats by the KIA and PDF groups to civilian lives and property reflect the characteristics commonly associated with terrorist organizations.It is also evident that deeper intention may also be involved in their acts. The government has recently indicated preparations to resume the suspended the Myitson Dam Project in cooperation with China, citing national interests and regional development. The KIA and PDF terrorists, who feel concerns for losing their status of warlord in the territory, have deliberately created instability in the Kachine State to obstruct or delay such development initiatives.In reality, Kachin State is not a domain for the exclusive benefit of any single organization, but a shared homeland for diverse ethnic communities who aspire to coexist peacefully. However, the pursuit of armed struggle of KIA under the pretext of ethnic causes poses a significant threat to the region’s stability and future, and has attracted widespread condemnation from various domestic and international organizations.At present, the violent actions of the KIA and PDF groups that constitute war crimes have intensified public resentment and hatred. As KIA and PDF terrorists directly endanger people’s lives and property, public tolerance appears to be diminishing, with calls on the government to eliminate the terrorist groups. Attacks by KIA and PDF groups targeting innocent civilian travellers constitute war crimes and cannot be justified under any circumstances. This article brings the realities to the attention of the international community that such acts of destruction not only hinder the development of Kachin State but also push the daily lives of local ethnic communities into hell.gnlm
The concept of sovereignty has deep roots in the history of human civilization. In ancient times, rulers such as kings and emperors claimed supreme authority over their lands, but the modern understanding of sovereignty began to take shape in Europe during the late Middle Ages. The turning point came with the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, which ended the Thirty Years’ War. This treaty established the principle that each state possessed the right to govern its territory and people without external interference. It marked the birth of the modern international system, where states were recognized as independent and equal units.Philosophers like Jean Bodin in the sixteenth century defined sovereignty as the absolute and perpetual power of a commonwealth. Later, thinkers such as Thomas Hobbes emphasized the necessity of a sovereign authority to maintain order and prevent chaos. Over time, sovereignty became the foundation of international law, diplomacy, and the recognition of nation-states.Today, the idea remains central: sovereignty ensures that countries can make their own laws, protect their borders, and preserve their identity. Although globalization and international organizations sometimes challenge this principle, sovereignty continues to symbolize independence and self‑determination in the modern world.Mutual Respect for Sovereignty in Human SocietySovereignty is not only a principle of state authority but also a moral foundation for peaceful coexistence among nations and peoples. In human society, the recognition of sovereignty means that every community, regardless of size or power, has the right to govern itself and preserve its identity. When nations respect each other’s sovereignty, they create conditions for stability, cooperation, and trust. Without such respect, conflicts, interventions, and domination often arise, leading to suffering and instability.An important example can be seen in the relationship between Switzerland and the international community. For centuries, Switzerland has maintained its sovereignty through neutrality. Even during major global conflicts such as the World Wars, other nations recognized and respected Switzerland’s independent status. This mutual respect allowed Switzerland to avoid invasion, protect its people, and contribute to humanitarian efforts. The case demonstrates that sovereignty is not only about independence but also about reciprocal recognition. Nations that honour each other’s sovereignty can coexist peacefully, even in times of global crisis.In today’s interconnected world, respecting sovereignty remains vital. Globalization, international organizations, and economic interdependence sometimes challenge state autonomy, but the principle of sovereignty ensures that cooperation does not become coercion. For example, when countries join the United Nations, they agree to work together while still maintaining their sovereign rights. This balance allows nations to collaborate on issues like climate change, health, and security without losing their independence.Ultimately, sovereignty must be respected by all nations and all people. It is the cornerstone of equality in international relations. By honouring sovereignty, humanity affirms the dignity of every community and ensures that cooperation is built on consent rather than force.Contemporary Challenges to SovereigntyIn the modern world, the principle of sovereignty is often challenged, as states sometimes fail to respect the independence of others. These violations do not arise randomly; they are rooted in deeper structural problems and global dynamics. Understanding these sources helps explain why sovereignty remains fragile despite being a cornerstone of international law.One major source is geopolitical rivalry. Powerful nations often intervene in weaker states to expand influence, secure strategic resources, or establish military dominance. For example, competition over oil, natural gas, or trade routes has led to interventions that undermine the sovereignty of smaller countries. Such actions are justified under the language of “national interest”, but they erode the principle of mutual respect.Another source is economic dependency and globalization. Developing nations that rely heavily on foreign investment, loans, or aid may face external pressure to adopt policies that serve the interests of donor countries or international institutions. This economic leverage can limit a nation’s ability to make independent decisions, effectively compromising sovereignty.Humanitarian intervention and security concerns also play a role. In cases of civil war, human rights abuses, or terrorism, powerful states or coalitions may justify military or political involvement in another country’s affairs. While these actions are often framed as protecting global peace or human dignity, they raise questions about whether sovereignty can be overridden by international responsibility.Additionally, technological and cyber influence has become a new frontier. Cyberattacks, digital surveillance, and manipulation of information across borders allow states to interfere in the internal affairs of others without traditional military force. This invisible intrusion challenges the very idea of territorial control upon which sovereignty is built.In addition, historical disputes and unresolved borders continue to generate sovereignty conflicts. Colonial legacies, ethnic divisions, and contested territories often lead to disputes where one state disregards the sovereignty of another. These conflicts remind us that sovereignty is not only a legal principle but also a fragile social contract shaped by history.Sovereignty violations in the contemporary era stem from a combination of geopolitical ambition, economic dependency, humanitarian claims, technological intrusion, and historical disputes. These sources reveal that sovereignty is constantly negotiated rather than guaranteed. For global peace and justice, nations must strive to balance legitimate international concerns with respect for the independence and dignity of all states.Suggestions for Addressing Sovereignty ConflictsTo reduce and eventually resolve conflicts that arise from violations of sovereignty, humanity must adopt practices rooted in respect, cooperation, and justice. Several key approaches can guide this effort:Dialogue and diplomacy: Nations should prioritize negotiation and peaceful dialogue over military or coercive measures. Diplomatic channels allow states to resolve disputes while preserving mutual respect.Strengthening international law: Global institutions such as the United Nations must reinforce rules that protect sovereignty, ensuring that interventions are lawful and limited to extreme cases like genocide or mass atrocities.Mutual recognition: States should acknowledge the equal dignity of all nations, regardless of size or power, and avoid policies that exploit weaker countries.Economic fairness: Reducing dependency through fair trade, sustainable development, and equitable financial systems helps prevent stronger nations from using economic leverage to undermine sovereignty.Cultural respect: Recognizing the unique traditions and identities of each nation fosters harmony and discourages domination.Technological ethics: In the digital age, nations must agree on norms that prevent cyber intrusions and protect sovereignty in cyberspace.In brief, sovereignty is the foundation of independence and equality among nations. When conflicts arise from its violation, the path to peace lies not in domination but in cooperation. Humanity must cultivate habits of dialogue, fairness, and respect, ensuring that global interaction strengthens rather than weakens sovereignty. By honouring this principle, nations can build a world where independence and dignity are preserved, and where cooperation is based on consent rather than coercion.gnlm
Behind job advertisements that claim no education, no professional skills, and no hard work are required; behind claims that a person has won a phone or an air conditioner in lucky draws; behind the attractive images on social media and the allure of sweet words; and behind various online gambling games – there are many complex stories of lies and deception.Basically, scams are often tailored to people’s needs: offering work to those who need it, offering money to those in need, fabricating stories of beauty for those drawn to it, extorting money from those with financial power, and using many other schemes to deceive people. In the end, victims’ lives are disrupted, and they suffer both physical and mental harm. At the same time, fraudsters exploit the lives of honest citizens to obtain money through these deceptive schemes. Under the guise of job opportunities, the victims’ futures are stolen.Many of those working in online gambling and money laundering operations are themselves victims of fraud, including human trafficking, and are reported to work 12 to 14 hours a day. Many victims find it difficult to escape and effectively become trapped in money laundering operations. They typically engage in various online fraudulent activities, such as investment scams, online gambling, lending schemes, and extortion by posing as a romantic partner, generating billions of US dollars in revenue each year for the leaders of the online financial fraud industry.Many foreign nationals involved in online money fraud have illegally entered Myanmar through border routes from neighbouring countries and have committed online fraud, online gambling, and other crimes in the Maehtawthalay-KK Park area of Myawady Township, Kayin State. About 90 per cent of these foreign nationals who commit online gambling and other crimes enter Myanmar via Thailand, with most of them crossing the border illegally.“Most of the materials used in the KK Park – about 90 per cent – come from Thailand. They don’t use any materials from Myanmar. Everything, from electronic devices to personal items, that comes through illegal crossings is imported from Thailand. These illegal routes are not for the benefit of our ethnic people or the country; they serve the interests of armed groups,” said a local from Inkyin Myaing village, located near the KK Park area. Foreign nationals who enter illegally in this way often use border areas in underdeveloped, lawless, and remote regions as bases for fraudulent activities.“Our area is a region controlled by armed groups with a low rule of law, so when there are clashes with the Tatmadaw, there are things we must avoid. If people cross to their side from this side, Thai soldiers set up a camp. They tell us not to go anywhere else and to stay in one place. I have never received international support to evade the fighting. Some people do, but it is not helpful. For example, they say they provide rice packets, blankets, and shirts—but they are used. When they give these items, they also record the displaced people as they cross the Thaungyin River. There is no effective system in place. There are refugee camps for people evading the fighting that receive international support, and the authorities show these people to the international community to obtain aid. It is like asking for rice by showcasing monkeys. We, the people of Myanmar, need to be aware of these things. We know this because we have experienced it firsthand,” said a local from Inkyin Myaing village.The recent KK Park incident, which occurred in the Myanmar-Thailand border area of Myawady, has become a hot topic in Southeast Asian countries. Media outlets have emphasized the need for effective action. The Myanmar government is continuously investigating and identifying foreign nationals who have committed telecom fraud, online gambling, and other crimes in the Maehtawthalay (KK Park) area of Myawady, Kayin State.Such investigations and deportation procedures are being carried out systematically in accordance with the law, and the foreign nationals are being transferred to their respective countries. In addition, the buildings in KK Park where they lived are being demolished. Similarly, the routes used by armed terrorists involved in illegal trade are being blocked and destroyed.Meanwhile, media reports have revealed that online fraud is spreading not only in Myanmar but also across Southeast Asia. According to these reports, 88 Chinese nationals were arrested in Indonesia on 29 August on suspicion of online crimes. Similarly, in Thailand, a mid-August crackdown on online financial fraud led to the arrest of a Myanmar woman, several Chinese nationals, and Thai nationals, as well as the seizure of luxury cars, real estate deeds, and cash linked to the telecom fraud.Therefore, relevant governments in Southeast Asian countries, including the Myanmar government, are working together to take urgent action in response to the rise in online crime in the region. The national government’s efforts to implement such measures, as well as the Myanmar government’s cooperation with government agencies in neighbouring countries to identify and suppress these activities, have been reported in state-owned newspapers.“We welcome the government’s continued crackdown on telecom fraud. The land at KK Park used to be our farmland and gardens. They bought it from local farmers for a lot of money, and then they built buildings on it. I’ve heard that after construction, it’s like a city. You don’t know what kinds of businesses they run. You can’t see them, and it’s not easy to get in or out. There are big walls and CCTV cameras, and security is tight. Many of us locals have never been there. Those who have done manual labour there say it’s hard to get in and out, so we avoid it. They say illegal gambling takes place there. We want to do legitimate manufacturing work in our area so that locals will have job opportunities and live comfortably,” said a resident of Maehtawthalay village.The government is now taking effective, lawful action against online criminal gangs that pose a significant threat to the country and its citizens. To support investigations and enforcement efforts, inspections and clearances have reportedly been carried out not only in Kayin State but also in northeastern and eastern Shan State.“All the buildings in KK Park will be demolished to prevent further online fraud, online gambling, and other crimes. There are also illegal gates, which are being removed and cleared. We are working to take legal action against everyone involved,” said an official.To date, 9,536 foreign nationals have been systematically deported to their respective countries via Thailand in line with legal procedures, and the remaining 1,279 foreign nationals are ready to be transferred to their countries.“In areas where the rule of law is weak, they use our land and rely on the Thaungyin River to do this. Only when the rule of law is firmly established will telecom fraud disappear. That is why we want a strong rule of law and good governance in our region. Then it will be easier to carry out other work. We will also benefit from better education, healthcare, and regional development. I hope for a situation like this,” said a resident of Inkyin Myaing village.Therefore, the public must be aware of and avoid the fraudulent money-making schemes of online criminal gangs, which involve various types of fraud, incentives, and content, and must cooperate with the processes carried out by the government in accordance with the law.(Translated by TH)
Our country, Myanmar, shares a long border area of land and water territories with neighbouring countries due to geographical conditions. Taking advantage of these border areas, unscrupulous businesspersons and the organizations opposing the government traffic commodities as illegal trade activities through illegal entry and exit crossings.These illegal trade activities hinder the economic development of the State and the progress of socioeconomic improvement of the people. It causes the loss of revenue for the State, harming the operation of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at home. Consequently, such an act affects the production and employment opportunities of the State and ethnic entrepreneurs. That is why it can be seen that people experience loss of job opportunities and an increasing number of unemployed. The people are facing the impacts of the inflation rate of currency and rising prices of commodities based to booming illegal trade activities. Furthermore, the illegal trade can affect the measures of security and the rule of law being implemented by the State. As such, it is necessary to effectively and clearly combat illegal trade activities as a national duty.The State Administration Council has reconstituted the Illegal Trade Eradication Steering Committee since December 2021. Under the guidance of the steering committee, illegal trade eradication task forces were set up in regions and states, while the Customs Department has been taking a leading role in the OSS in cooperation with relevant departments in prevention, seizure and checking functions against the illegal trade activities.Despite carrying out restrictive prevention and seizing, illegal trade activities have not disappeared yet. Different amounts of trade volume and value can be seen in comparing with the trade data obtained from neighbouring countries. Unscrupulous businesspersons are seeking various ways and means to commit illegal trade activities.Currently, a serious situation is found where foodstuffs and personal goods labelled with fake trademarks are being sold in the market at home. It is very dangerous for the people who use and consume foodstuffs, cosmetics and medicines labelled with fake trademarks without any recommendations of health authorities. Moreover, the distribution and sales of these domestically-manufactured foodstuffs and personal goods labelled with fake trademarks can harm the long-term interests of MSME businesses.It has been observed that unscrupulous businesspersons are taking advantage of the current situation along the country’s border routes to intensify illegal trade activities. At the same time, it supports illegal online gambling operations in border areas. According to bilateral trade data and records of seizures, these findings have been confirmed. It is therefore necessary to effectively prevent and control illegal activities along border routes, and illegal trade, trafficking, and sales of goods on social media platforms must not be overlooked.The booming illegal trade and trafficking through the online platform can result in loss of revenue for the State. Trading of low-quality commodities, foodstuffs, cosmetics and medicines without recommendations of health authorities can harm the health and socioeconomic life of the people. As such, it can be said that these illegal trade activities become a very dangerous challenge for the State and the people.According to information from the illegal trade eradication task forces, seizures have included not only motorcycles, motor vehicles, and machinery, but also narcotic drugs and prohibited chemicals. Although illegal trade activities have been widespread, the situation has gradually come under control. Illegal trade causes losses and damage to every perspective — public health, social and economic development, and national progress. Therefore, it is essential for all citizens to actively participate in preventing and combating such activities effectively. To ensure that illegal trade is completely eradicated, collective efforts are required. At the same time, extensive public awareness campaigns must be carried out so that the entire population understands the need to prevent and curb these illegal activities.At present, the Illegal Trade Eradication Steering Committee, formed by the State and illegal trade eradication task forces, are effectively preventing and combatting illegal trade activities. On the other hand, State-owned newspapers and FM radios mention telephone numbers and e-mail addresses for people to inform the authorities about illegal trade activities. The State presents deserved rewards to dutiful people for their information about the illegal trade activities. As such, people are urged to actively participate with a patriotic spirit and national unity in efforts to eliminate illegal trade for the sake of national development and the socioeconomic progress of citizens. People are also encouraged to cooperate in the eradication of illegal trade by making use of the rewards granted by the State for providing information.Translated.GNLM
The scam centres along the Myanmar eastern borders were definitely one of the most newsworthy issues of 2025. But with the Myanmar government cleaning these up at rocket speed and EAOs caught between the devil and the deep blue sea, the supply of scams could become more decentralized over the next few years. Their operations have become more mobile and agile. The number of staff involved also became akin to terror cells, staffed with just a few people with lots of technologies and AI. The supply of scams might not drop, but it would definitely become more distributed, with scammers being stationed in various cities and towns within the poorer ASEAN countries.Regardless of supply, the demand is on the side of the righteous. With more and more people becoming aware of scams of various kinds and major news networks doing investigative work along the Mae Sot-Myawady border, the chances of the general public getting conned are now significantly lower than they were a couple of years ago. Word of mouth is also contributing towards the fight against scams. Furthermore, how many times could you possibly scam one person? Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me! Or, that person has already run out of lifelong savings to be scammed upon. Hence, the demand for scams is undoubtedly going south as we write this, and eventually, it will not occupy the top spot in crime charts even as the scammers devise new ways to dupe people using technology and AI.So, the crimes of swindling will dwindle as we straddle a quarter of this century.It’s great news for everyone, then, isn’t it?Based on our forecast of the times ahead, there might be more serious issues brewing around the corner.The reasoning is simple… Even though the scam centres are nearly gone, the governance and law and order misalignment in the border areas has not been addressed at all. These regions, Wa, Koh Kant, some parts of Shan, Kayin, Kachin, Chin, Nagaland, are totally not under the control of the Myanmar government or military (Tatmadaw). The EAOs operating there are more interested in enriching themselves whichever way possible, rather than building infrastructure for the inhabitants of the land. The drug lords, crime lords, warlords, etc., are still thriving over there by currying favours with the barbarian leaders of EAOs. Hence, the ecosystem is so oriented towards these regions to become the epicentre of the next tsunami of global transgression.Drugs are openly sold along the streets of Phakant in Kachin State. Average youths in the city of Mogok, near northern Shan, are addicted to one kind of drug or another. The border town of Tachilek, being the major town in the Golden Triangle, is also flooded with drugs of various kinds that the residents there could not even address the defences against the regularity of major floods that inundate the ground floors of almost all houses in the city (happened 3x this year alone). In another checkpoint city of Myawaddy, clashes between Tatmadaw and EAOs or between EAOs have become so common that people are only interested in making quick money, i.e., via engaging in an abundance of vice. Further down south along the Three Pagoda pass, the sole trade across the border seems to be in synthetic drugs. We do not know which way the drugs are heading from there, but stats actually reveal some trends.Even in cities such as Maw La Myine, the capital of Mon State, the only profitable businesses to do seem to be synthetic drugs, gambling and smuggling of various stuff, including human beings. We personally heard the direct account from the youth and businessmen over there, who would regularly go to ‘Hi’ rooms once a week at least, as long as they got money in their pockets.Out of our motherland, the latest statistics in Malaysia show a 32.5 per cent increase in reported drug users and addicts from 2023 to 2024. Its DPM said, “Drug abuse in Malaysia has reached a ‹critical level’ and threatens public safety, economic stability, and social structures”. Australia has reported A$450 million more drug seizures in 2024 compared to the previous year. Thailand also reported a nearly 50 per cent increase in drug-related cases in 2024.In Myanmar, too, the value of drug seizures has gone up significantly. Gone were the days when the carriers were caught with a hundred thousand dollars or so worth of drugs. Recent synthetic drug seizures were each in excess of $1million for each capture.In its 2024 Annual Report, the International Narcotics Control Board finds that,Illicit synthetic drugs are spreading, and consumption is increasingMore coordinated action by Governments and others is needed to tackle the problemSynthetic drugs could overtake some plant-based drugs in the near futureThe total and individual value of drug busts have gone up, even though the costs of production of synthetic drugs have gone down, which undoubtedly leads to the conclusion that the volume of drugs shipped or transported must have gone up exponentially.Synthetic drugs are easily manufactured with little technical or scientific knowledge, and there is a reduced need for labour or land for cultivation, unlike for plant-based drugs such as Cocaine or Heroin. The manufacturing station can be located anywhere, and the same equipment can be used for different synthetic outputs. Traffickers can shift manufacturing, movement and marketing tactics to keep operating costs down and profit margins up, as well as to reduce risks of interdiction.As synthetic drugs are more potent (some even inducing zombie-like conditions), traffickers can send smaller consignments, which are easier to conceal and sometimes use drones and other new trafficking techniques. Although global demand for plant-based drugs is still higher than the current supply of synthetic drugs, seizures of synthetic substances have already begun to outpace seizures of some plant-based drugs.Along the border regions of Myanmar, as long as the EAOs turned a blind eye, every household compound or basement could be a synthetic drug lab, churning out thousands of tablets per day. And if they can turn a blind eye to the scams that cheat the poor and gullible without an ounce of conscience, why would they bother interfering when they are producing and exporting some drugs! After all, they have been one of the world’s top exporters of Heroin before.I have personally spoken to one prominent business person from Kengtung in eastern Shan. He said the largest factories that supply the world with synthetics were located around the centre of Shan State, under the control of the Wa and Shan State Armies. The individual labs of ‘aspiring’ entrepreneurs are in empty land plots just on the outskirts of major towns and cities in these self-administered regions.The difference between synthetics and scams is such that the latter is not additive. The demand for scams is diminishing while the demand for synthetics is growing exponentially, as the supply has exploded and prices have dropped. Combined with the addiction factor, we are looking at a worldwide disaster within a relatively short number of years.Just like scam centres, lack of jurisdiction alignment would come into play, resulting in years of inaction, blame game and finger pointing, while the world youth succumbs to the synthetic enslavement and loss of productivity and economic output.We need to start working together now; ASEAN, RCEP, Interpol, INCB, etc., to ensure that the problem is nib in the bud. We don’t want another deja vu cataclysm like the scam centres, do we??GNLM
