TATMADAW columns conducting area security operations in Myawady Township, Kayin State, carried out necessary security measures based on information that illegal online scam and gambling activities were being operated in the Kyaukkhat area. On 25 July, they raided the area and arrested a total of 777 people involved in online scam and gambling activities from seven one-storey zincroofed buildings and one three-storey zinc-roofed building. Among those arrested were 620 Chinese nationals (men), 11 Chinese nationals (women), three Thai nationals (women), 32 Myanmar nationals (men), and 111 Myanmar nationals (women). They were also found with equipment used for online scam and gambling activities, including one Starlink receiver, 85 computers, and 183 mobile phones.
To identify and arrest those involved in the illegal online scam and gambling operations, military columns began preparations and security operations in Laykaekaw from 6 July. During the operations, clashes occurred with combined groups of KNLA and PDF groups, providing protection to those involved in online scam and gambling activities in exchange for payment.
The clashes occurred at about 2,000 metres south of Yathegu village in Myawady Township on 9 July, about 5,500 metres southeast of Laykaekaw on 12 July, about 8,600 metres southeast of Laykaekaw on 16 July, about 10,000 metres southeast of Laykaekaw on 21 July, and an area near the Myanmar-Thailand border, about 7,000 metres south of Minletpan village, on 25 July. As a result, buildings used for illegal online scam and gambling operations and those involved in the activities were captured.
During the operations, clashes also took place with terrorist groups, and 13 bodies of terrorists, nine assorted weapons, ammunition, fortified concrete bunkers, temporary shelters, and related equipment were seized.
Once investigations are complete, those arrested for online scam and gambling activities will face legal action under existing laws. Seized business equipment will be processed in line with official procedures.
The government continues active cooperation with neighbouring, regional, and international partners to stamp out online scams and gambling, preventing such illegal operations from taking root in Myanmar. — MNA/KTZH
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