Thailand cuts off border electricity supply to combat Myanmar's cryptocurrency scam centers
ChainCatcher news, according to Protos, the Thai government cut off electricity, internet, and fuel supplies in the Thai-Myanmar border area at 9 AM on February 5 (10 AM Beijing time) to combat local cryptocurrency scam centers. This operation involved five service providers in the regions of Myawaddy, Payathonzu, and Tachilek.
According to investigations, the KK Park scam center located in Myawaddy is suspected of defrauding $100 million worth of USDT through a "pig butchering" scheme. In 2023, Myanmar authorities rescued 1,200 imprisoned individuals in the area. This power cut operation is an important measure taken by the Thai government in response to pressure from China, following concerns raised by Chinese actors who were scammed in the region.
Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha stated that scam activities severely affect Thailand's national image and that strict measures need to be taken. Although the power cut will impact local residents and the normal operation of hospitals, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that relevant communities had been notified in advance.