Myanmar authorities have arrested 52 individuals in a crackdown on telecom fraud and illegal online gambling in Tachilek Township, Shan State (East), as reported by The Global New Light of Myanmar.
According to officials, a joint task force comprising security personnel launched inspections following reports of online scam and gambling operations in the border town. At around 11:50 am, officers raided a location near Loma Hotel in Weinkyauk Ward, detaining three Chinese male nationals and six Myanmar female nationals allegedly engaged in online fraud and gambling activities.
Items seized in the first operation included three all-in-one computers, 13 laptops, 320 mobile phones, 108 tablets, a printer, six Wi-Fi routers and other related equipment.
Further searches were conducted later in the day. At approximately 2:10 pm, authorities raided a house in the same ward, arresting eight Chinese male nationals, one female Chinese national from Taiwan, 27 Myanmar male nationals and seven Myanmar female nationals. Officers confiscated an additional 23 all-in-one computers, a monitor, a system unit, 52 mobile phones and related devices.
In total, 52 suspects were detained and a substantial volume of operational equipment seized. Authorities said those arrested will be handled in accordance with the law, with investigations ongoing to identify individuals directing or financing the operations.
The Government described the fight against online fraud and illegal online gambling as a national responsibility with international implications. Officials said Myanmar is working closely with domestic agencies and neighboring countries to prevent such operations from taking root.
Foreign nationals found to be involved will be investigated under existing laws. Where appropriate, they may be repatriated on humanitarian grounds, while key offenders will be formally prosecuted.
Foreign nationals found involved in online fraud may be repatriated on humanitarian grounds, while key offenders will face prosecution
