Daw Myintzu Zaw Toe of the Popular News journal asked that she wanted to know how the government and Tatmadaw will handle the telecom fraud and online gambling activities and illegal foreign entrants in Minletpan.
Maj-Gen
Zaw Min Tun replied that the Minletpan case has already become known to the
media, and that the case is a manoeuvre by the KNU to show that it is not
connected to online fraud after having previously committed online fraud
activities. He said that this was done to divert attention from the
Government’s ongoing efforts to decisively and comprehensively crack down on
online fraud and online gambling operations. To that end, he said, KNU staged a
show of seizing the KKO group — an organization in which the KNU itself had
been involved (adding that he had previously explained how and in what ways the
KKO group and certain elements of KNU had been connected in some areas) – to
conceal from the public the depth of their own involvement. He added that these
points were also presented in their PowerPoint materials. He further said that,
through the embassy of a foreign country, they had received information that
citizens of that country had died in the Minletpan case. With regard to this
matter, he said that investigations are currently underway and that, once the
investigations are completed, further actions will be taken accordingly.
He
continued that, as he had previously stated, online fraud cases would be
eradicated, and that strong action would be taken against online fraud
incidents wherever they occur in Myanmar. In connection with the question, he
also wished to address certain situations arising along the Myanmar-Thailand
border. He said that they are carrying out security measures and the demolition
of structures in border areas, and that the objectives of these operations had
already been explained. He said that, in an attempt to disrupt these efforts,
the KNU has been instigating fighting in those areas, including clashes with
Tatmadaw members. He added that there have also been claims from Thailand that
shells fired by the Myanmar Tatmadaw have landed inside Thai territory, and
that he did not entirely deny this. He stressed that Myanmar and Thailand are
neighbouring countries, and that mechanisms for border affairs between the two
countries have already been established down to the basic level, with
coordination being carried out through township-level bilateral border
committees, district-level bodies, and regional-level mechanisms. However, he
emphasized that some of the incidents were not the result of fire from their
side. He alleged that the KNU was deliberately creating problems between
Myanmar and Thailand, including firing rounds into Thailand while staging the
appearance of fighting. Concerning this, he said that at the Minletpan location
he was about to show, it could be seen that KNU elements were deliberately firing
40mm grenades into Thailand. He said he would present the video footage, adding
that the firing was directed toward Thailand, that no fighting was taking place
at the time, and that this served as evidence. The video shows KNU elements
firing across the Thaungyin (Moei) River into Thailand without any engagement
taking place. He claimed that such actions were intended to create
misunderstandings and provoke problems between the two countries. He added that
only by acting in this way could the KNU and KNU-linked terrorist groups
continue to exist, as instability and problems along the border are what
sustain their presence and operations. He concluded by saying that Myanmar and
Thailand are neighbouring countries that have maintained relations for many decades,
and that both sides would counter such attempts to sow misunderstanding through
friendship and cooperation, and would continue to work together bilaterally.
Deputy
Chief Editor U Myo Min Latt of Amimyay Thitsa Thadinsone news journal asked
about the eradication strategy. He said he would like to know about certain
areas of cooperation between the Government and organizations currently
operating in Kayin State, such as NCA signatory groups like the DKBA,
organizations such as the KNU/KNLA-PC, and groups like the BGF that are
currently under the authority of the State defence.
Maj-Gen
Zaw Min Tun said that this point had already been included among the terms he
mentioned earlier. He wished to state that, within online fraud activities, not
only some EAO groups but also certain armed groups are involved. However,
rather than saying that organizations themselves are involved, it should be
understood that the activities are carried out either by individual members
within those organizations or by small groups that follow those individuals.
What he wanted to emphasize was that bad blood must be removed. Just as there
are good people in every organization, there are also bad ones, and not all
organizations are bad. At present, among those operating in the Shwe Kokko
area, some BGF members are involved in cooperation, while some BGF members are
not involved at all. Therefore, clear distinctions must be made. He also said
that EAO organizations should not look at the face of the government, but
instead look at the face of the State and the people.
Chief
Editor Daw Khaing Sabei Oo of Hein Thitsa Thadinsone Journal said it was known
that Myanmar is currently accepting individuals who entered from other
countries and were involved in online fraud activities, including those who
committed or participated in such crimes, and is bearing the full costs of
feeding, accommodating, and caring for them before repatriating them to their
countries of origin. She questioned whether, when Myanmar citizens have been
involved in such activities in other countries or have been exploited in
illegal activities or other unlawful work, those countries have similarly cared
for them and repatriated them to Myanmar in this manner, and how many such
cases there have been.
Maj-Gen
Zaw Min Tun replied that, internationally, these matters constitute
transnational crimes and are carried out collectively by criminals and
fugitives who have fled from other countries through illicit means. While he
could not provide an exact figure in response to the journalist’s question, he
noted that every country has its own standards at the international level,
including established humanitarian standards. Therefore, if a Myanmar national
commits an offence in another country, that country handles the case in
accordance with its own laws. Providing food and accommodation and conducting
screening before repatriation are procedures practised by all countries. He
added that such measures are being carried out and that repatriation to Myanmar
is also taking place.
Chief
Executive Officer U Min Htet Paing of Thadin Naga Thadinsone Journal said it
has been observed that as online fraud and gambling have become more widespread
in Myanmar, Myanmar citizens, as well as citizens of other countries, are
suffering from related criminal activities. While it is understood that the
current period is one of cracking down on and eradicating such crimes, he
wished to know the situation regarding how quickly citizens from other
countries, as well as Myanmar citizens, who have unwillingly fallen into online
fraud operations, will be rescued, protected, and provided with assistance.
Maj-Gen
Zaw Min Tun explained that there are some complexities in online fraud cases.
The complicated aspect is that, in some instances, individuals did not commit the
crime themselves but had their phone numbers, identification numbers, or images
misused. There are people in Myanmar who have suffered such harm. However, in
other cases, it is not a matter of victimization but of collaboration. As
stated by the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, while it is true that some
individuals were victims, others were not victims and carried out the acts
themselves. He acknowledged that such cases exist in Myanmar and that there are
also foreign nationals involved. He said the number of those arrested so far is
relatively small. As the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs noted, although some
individuals were arrested and deported, certain people later willingly
returned. Such individuals must be clearly identified and distinguished. Those
who are guilty will be dealt with severely. He said Myanmar’s position has
already been made clear: online fraud is not the deception of a single person,
but the deception of large numbers of people, and is therefore regarded as a
serious crime committed against the public. Accordingly, those who require
protection will be protected, while those who must face firm legal action will
be dealt with decisively.
Reporter
U Win Zaw of Ahmantaya Thadinsone Journal said that he welcomed the formation
and operation of the Supervisory Committee for Combatting Online Fraud and
Online Gambling, and expressed confidence that online fraud and online gambling
would be eliminated as soon as possible. He noted that many people are engaging
in fraudulent sales of online gambling schemes, such as car, motorcycle, land
plot, and house lotteries, advertised online as prize draws that would pay out
if the three-digit Thai lottery numbers match. He wished to know whether action
is being taken and arrests are being made against such online lottery
operations.
Police
Brig-Gen Kyaw Lin replied that online gambling activities can be found
operating on the internet in various forms and through a wide range of methods
and games. Those who fraudulently sell illegal Thai lottery schemes and prize
draws involving cars, land, houses, and similar items are being identified
through technical means and prosecuted under the Gambling Law. He added that as
of December 2025, action has been taken in 107 online gambling cases.
Chief
Reporter Ko Thuta Kyaw of the NP News news agency said that online scams are
being eradicated along the border areas, but there have been reports that some
of the perpetrators have crossed into the country. There are also reports
claiming that corrupt activity is involved in the actions taken against them.
He wished to have a clear response regarding this matter.
Maj-Gen
Zaw Min Tun said that online gambling involves two layers of complexity: first,
the technical aspects, and second, the individuals carrying out the activities.
Regarding the technical aspects, even if online gambling operations are
suppressed locally, certain technical elements may remain intact, and it is
impossible to completely remove data that exists “in the cloud” or on the
internet. Such information cannot be fully known even by journalists or the
authorities, making it difficult to eradicate. The second layer involves
individuals committing online gambling offences. He noted that those engaged in
such activities are rarely upright or law-abiding people; internationally, most
offenders are fugitives or criminals who have fled other countries, and they
often have networks or groups supporting them from behind the scenes. He
continued that, for this reason, they are tracking certain cases and
coordinating efforts in collaboration with all relevant parties. Those who are
suppressed at the borders may still enter Myanmar, and it cannot be said that
this is impossible, nor do they deny it. Journalists have already observed how
many individuals have left the country, and some can also enter Myanmar. When
they enter, the authorities will take decisive action to suppress them. He
emphasized that when individuals enter Myanmar, the primary responsibility lies
with the local population: the people themselves should report relevant
information without pretending not to see or hear anything. If they ignore what
they see or hear, it is as if the suppression has already begun. Secondly,
there should be no place for offenders to hide – they will only be able to hide
among the local population. To prevent hiding, he urged that if any suspicious
individuals or situations are observed, the community should work together with
law enforcement authorities to take coordinated action.
Senior
Reporter U Zeyar Nyein of Myanmar Transparency News Agency said that in recent
days, China issued warrants for the arrest of four major gangs from China and
around 100 suspected individuals. Based on this, it appears that northern
groups such as the MNDAA and TNLA have also been accepting and protecting
individuals involved in online scams in exchange for fees. He added that in the
Myawady Township area, Tatmadaw is currently carrying out operations to
eradicate such activities. In this situation, some armed groups engaged in
clashes with Tatmadaw are reportedly taking fees from online scam perpetrators
to provide protection and help them evade capture. He wished to know how the
responsible authorities and Tatmadaw plan to handle and resolve these matters.
Maj-Gen
Zaw Min Tun clarified that some reports have been received, but certain pieces
of information cannot yet be verified. Reports are indicating that, even within
the Laukkai border area, small groups are continuing online scam operations,
though not on a large scale as before. These reports have not been confirmed
because there are no dedicated news-gathering organizations in that area, and
the information comes indirectly through news channels. However, the sources
are considered reasonably reliable. Therefore, they are also cooperating with
the neighbouring country, China, and will continue efforts to strengthen the
reliability of this information. Based on these ongoing efforts, there are
EAO-controlled areas in the border regions and some territories of armed groups
further inland, where small-scale operations are still taking place. Arrests
have already been made in and around Namsang Township in southern Shan State.
According to coordinated intelligence exchanged between the two countries,
these activities are ongoing. He emphasized that Myanmar and China will
continue working together to identify sources in these areas and suppress
online scam activities.
U
Zeyar Nyein asked that if the information from these sources is accurate, and
if it is true that certain individuals are being sheltered or rescued, he
wishes to know how authorities plan to take action in response.
Maj-Gen
Zaw Min Tun replied that they have been engaging in discussions with certain
organizations. These discussions are aimed at achieving a ceasefire and
promoting peace. Regarding the actions of these organizations, they will first
issue warnings, and if these are not heeded, the State will take appropriate
action.
Senior
Reporter U Aung Kyaw Oo of Special Hittaing news agency said that he is pleased
with the efforts of the government in eradicating online scams in the border
areas. However, he noted that some operations are still accessing phones online
through linked systems. Some games, similar to “buffalo games”, reportedly lose
around K10 million per day in a very short period. He also observed that
certain artists are being used to advertise these activities. He wished to know
how these matters are being managed.
Police
Brig-Gen Kyaw Lin replied that with the advancement of technology, crimes
committed using technology have become more varied and widespread. Regarding
online gambling and slot games such as “buffalo games”, authorities have been
monitoring and taking action against related social media accounts, including
Facebook and Telegram accounts. From 2023 to 2025, over 2,000 Facebook,
Telegram, and other social media accounts suspected of being linked to online
games were identified and acted upon. In connection with these, more than 2,300
SIM cards were blocked, and 456 linked phone numbers were also disabled.
Additionally, over 1,900 Pay accounts used for deposits and withdrawals related
to online gambling were blocked. He noted that some advertisements involved
actors promoting these activities. In one case in 2025, an actor who advertised
on the Miles Ceno Facebook Page was identified, arrested, and prosecuted
according to the law. He stated that Myanmar’s police are actively monitoring
and investigating online gambling activities using technical methods, and can
block accounts, Pay accounts, and social media accounts. SIM cards are also
being disabled, and links are continuously monitored, with associated phone
numbers being blocked as well.
Chief
Editor Naung Taw Lay of Myanmar National Post News Agency said he wished to
know whether a case has been filed against Saw Kwe Htoo Win, the leader of the
KNU armed group, and his associates, who were primarily responsible for
conducting online scam operations. If no case has been filed yet, he wanted to
know whether there are plans to open one.
Police
Chief Police Lt-Gen Win Zaw Moe said that the KNU was previously considered an
unlawful organization. After signing the nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA),
the KNU was removed from the list of unlawful organizations. However, following
the political developments in 2021, the KNU has engaged in terrorist acts,
including attacks on government offices, destruction of roads and bridges, and
disruption of the Asian Highway. At the time of these incidents, the State
government could not remain passive toward the KNU. Therefore, on 28 August
2025, the KNU was once again officially declared both a terrorist organization
and an unlawful organization. He said that the current situation regarding
online scams and online gambling in the border areas, and the KNU’s position on
these activities, had already been explained earlier, so it should already be
understood. Currently, cases have been filed against the KNU, including leader
Pado Saw Kwe Htoo Win, members of the central committee, and their subordinate
members, under the Anti-Terrorism Law and the Unlawful Associations Act. Cases
have also been filed under the law protecting the general election of the
Union-level democratic party from obstruction and sabotage. He added that
actions will continue under domestic law to hold the KNU accountable. He
emphasized that what he was describing reflects their internal processes. He
noted that Myanmar has its own law enforcement agency and is a member country
of ASEANAPOL. Last year, the 42nd ASEANAPOL Conference was held in Nay Pyi Taw,
Myanmar, and this year, the 43rd ASEANAPOL Conference was held in Thailand,
attended by delegations led by him. He further stated that Myanmar also
cooperates with the international police organization, Interpol. Internally,
they are carrying out their operations, and if all criteria are met, they will
continue coordination with ASEANAPOL and Interpol. However, he stressed that in
these international organizations, Myanmar must operate in accordance with
their constitutions, including Interpol’s Constitution, while continuing its
work.
Chief
Editor U Htoo Maung Maung of Union Politics News asked about the situation
regarding online scams in Myawady, noting that the government has taken control
of KK Park, which had been under the KNU armed group, and has managed the
transfer of individuals who arrive there at the national level. He also said
that after KNU entered and took control of online scam operations linked to the
KKO group in Minletpan, there were reports that, without transferring them to
the State government, the insurgents captured them unilaterally and transferred
them to Thailand. He wished to know whether the Thai government officially
reports such transfers back to the Myanmar government, and also sought
information regarding bilateral cooperation between the two governments on
these matters.
Chief of Police Police Lt-Gen Win Zaw Moe explained that online scam gangs
operate as part of a multi-jurisdictional criminal network. Therefore, Myanmar
has the responsibility to address crimes occurring within its own territory.
Moreover, there is an original country where these online scam operations are
initiated, and a transit country through which they pass before reaching
Myanmar. Myanmar has responsibility for passing of those individuals and the
transit countries are also responsible for it. Moreover, the transit countries
have to disrupt the flow of people and financial transactions. He added that
for border area control, Myanmar and the transit countries must enhance and
implement border control and border monitoring plans. Designating this as a
border security issue solely for Myanmar overlooks the global operations of
these criminal networks. Therefore, the original country must also implement
effective preventive measures to protect its nationals in advance. He stated
that to effectively dismantle these criminal operations, all countries involved
in the network must cooperate. As previously explained, the perpetrators
originate from an original country, pass through a transit country, and Myanmar
serves as the destination. Currently, the “hotspot” areas are Myanmar and
Thailand, and the majority of those involved are Chinese nationals. Therefore,
China, Thailand, and Myanmar are working together on this matter. The
trilateral cooperation among Myanmar, China, and Thailand is ongoing to prevent
online scams and online gambling across the Myanmar-Thailand border region. He
noted that the Chinese side is being led by the Assistant Minister of Public
Security of China. Yesterday, a delegation from Myanmar went to Bangkok, and
today they are scheduled to visit KK Park and the Shwe Kokko areas. Following
the press briefing, Myanmar’s Deputy Minister of Home Affairs will also follow
up. He emphasized that the three countries are jointly working on operations to
suppress online gambling, and that three senior-level meetings and two
minister-level meetings have already been held. Regarding the online scam
operators in the Minletpan area, KNU’s direct transfer to Thailand is being
addressed through a meeting in Thailand, where the three countries will openly
and transparently coordinate. He stressed that since Myanmar is the government
in Minletpan, it will handle the matter directly. The meeting in Thailand will
allow open coordination regarding direct transfers. Currently, the three
countries are jointly cooperating, intending to eliminate online scam
operations in the region, and these collaborative efforts are actively ongoing.
MNA/TTA
#TheGlobalNewLightOfMyanmar
No comments:
Post a Comment