VOA reported that the Thai National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission announced the termination of online communication services to Shwe Kukko in Myawady District.
During a press conference on May 9, an NBTC official conveyed the decision in Thai, as per the news outlet.
"We have provided 69 internet cable lines to the Myanmar side via Melama Township, Phop Phra District, Tak Province. Authorities responsible for this connection must deactivate all illegal lines within 15 days," declared the official, as reported by VOA.
These actions were taken jointly by the Thai government-owned NBTC and military personnel. The NBTC Office emphasized the illegality of supplying high-speed internet to online fraud syndicates in Myawady, according to the news report.
Despite previous cutoffs by the Thai government since last June, online fraud activities persist in Shwe Kukko. VOA's report indicates ongoing collaboration between these fraudulent groups and internet providers on the Myanmar side, facilitated by connections from Thailand.
The Karen Border Guard Force (BGF) has issued a directive mandating the evacuation of foreign individuals engaged in online businesses around Myawady Township in Kayin State by October 31.
The Myawady Disciplinary Office of the BGF has issued a multilingual warning statement in Myanmar, English, and Chinese, stipulating the departure of all foreign nationals engaged in online business activities from May 1 to October 30, 2024. Those who have illegally crossed the border must exit via the same entry route by the specified date. Failure to comply will result in punitive measures post-October 30, as outlined in the warning.
Primarily affecting Chinese nationals, this directive follows increased scrutiny and public concern over online-related issues. Some individuals have already begun departing. Those unable to return to their home countries may seek refuge in neighboring nations like Thailand. Border guard officials have warned of arrest and deportation to respective embassies for non-compliance with the specified timeline, as reported in various media outlets.
An article published on April 22, 2024, by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) alleged connections between leaders of the Karen Border Guard Force (BGF) and Chinese money laundering syndicates operating in Myawady Township.
