Three Chinese nationals have been arrested near Ho Pong Village in Laicha Township, southern Shan State, in connection with online scam and gambling operations, along with equipment allegedly used in the activities.

Following reports that online scam and gambling operations were being conducted in Laicha Township, joint teams including security personnel carried out investigations to identify those involved.

At around 10:40 am, on October 21, the teams discovered a site near Ho Pong Village, approximately 30 kilometers southeast of Laicha, where they seized a temporary workshop measuring 30 feet by 15 feet, a large temporary residential shelter measuring 40 feet by 15 feet, a smaller temporary residential shelter measuring 20 feet by 15 feet, and a temporary kitchen shelter.

The seized equipment included three Starlink units, eight laptops, four power stations, 20 mobile phones, seven network switches, three network routers, one large generator, 30 plastic chairs, four folding tables and other related items.

Security personnel subsequently conducted further clearance operations in the surrounding area and arrested three Chinese men, according to reports.

The detainees will face legal action under existing laws after the necessary investigations have been completed. The seized equipment will also be handled in accordance with established procedures.

The authorities said Myanmar continues to cooperate with neighboring countries, regional partners and international organizations to combat online scams and gambling and prevent such operations from becoming established in the country.