The Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) issued a statement on February 9 asking Chinese nationals operating casinos and food businesses in Phaya Thonezu Township, Kayin State, to leave by February 28.

The DKBA statement said that the Thai government has cut off electricity and fuel to Phaya Thonezu Township to combat the online frauds, causing economic losses to local residents.

Therefore, in order to reduce the impact on the city’s residents and prevent online frauds businesses from establishing themselves in Phaya Thonezu Township, the DKBA has issued a statement ordering Chinese nationals operating illegally businesses such as casinos and food businesses in Phaya Thonezu Township to leave by February 28.

The DKBA said that the order was issued to prevent online money-scammers from establishing themselves in Phaya Thonezu Township.

In addition, the DKBA statement said that it will also block Chinese citizens from entering the Phaya Thonezu Township.

Thailand has cut off electricity, internet and fuel distribution to five locations in the country since February 5 to crack down on online fraud activities that threaten national security.

Residents of Myawady said that due to the cuts by Thailand, they are facing fuel, electricity and drinking water shortages.

The DKBA Central Command Office also issued a statement in recent days ordering the closure of all DKBA-run game shops and Our Day shops in and around Myawady, Kayin State.

The letter was issued to all DKBA military commands, strategic military bases, battalions, departments and columns.

At the Central Executive Committee (Emergency) Meeting (1/2025) held at the DKBA Central Command Office on January 31, it was agreed to close all game shops and Our Day shops opened in and around Myawady for the welfare of all members and their families.

Therefore, the military commands, strategic military bases, battalions, departments and columns have been instructed to permanently close all game shops and our day shops, the DKBA statement said.