
BANGKOK — Thailand will cut electricity, internet, and fuel supplies to five locations along its border with Myanmar starting February 5, marking an unprecedented move to combat transnational crime operations, particularly call center scams that have caused billions in damages.
The decision, announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai following a National Security Council (NSC) meeting on February 4, comes after revelations that such scams have victimized over 557,500 people and caused losses exceeding 68 billion baht ($2 billion), with daily damages of approximately 80 million baht ($2.3 million).
Prime Minister Paethongthan Shinawatra strongly endorsed the action following a Cabinet meeting. “I have no hestitaion. We must take care of our people first,” she stated firmly. “The impact on Thai people and our country’s image has been enormous. It’s time to take decisive action.”
The measures target five key areas along the Thai-Myanmar border, including major crossing points at Three Pagodas Pass, Mae Sai-Tachileik, and Mae Sot-Myawaddy. All affected locations are reportedly linked to call center gang operations.

The move follows recent high-level discussions between Thai officials and China’s Assistant Minister of Public Security, Liu Zhongyi, highlighting the international scope of the problem. China has also suffered significant losses from these criminal operations and has pledged to cooperate through information sharing.
Thai authorities have coordinated with healthcare facilities in affected areas to prepare for the shutdown. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will notify the Myanmar government of the action, which affects several Myanmar-licensed companies operating under contracts with Thailand’s Provincial Electricity Authority.

When questioned about possible retaliation from Myanmar, both the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister expressed confidence in the decision, noting that the issue has been previously discussed with Myanmar authorities who understand the international nature of the problem.
The shutdown will be coordinated across 51 border districts, with authorities ready to prevent any attempts at illegal power connections. Officials emphasized that while Myanmar operators might resort to using generators, Thailand’s priority remains protecting its citizens from transnational criminal activities.
This unprecedented action represents Thailand’s strongest stance yet against border-based criminal operations, demonstrating the government’s commitment to addressing what it views as a critical national security issue affecting both domestic and international interests.