Myanmar call centre crackdown cuts crime by 60% in three months
Tactical operation dismantles illicit networks, reducing fraud
The government has declared the 3 Cuts strategy, aimed at disrupting call centre operations in Myanmar, a success three months after its implementation.
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced yesterday, May 8, that measures initiated since February 5, targeting electricity, fuel, and internet access in five specific locations, have led to a notable decrease in call centre activities, particularly in border areas like Mae Sai in Chiang Rai and Mae Sot in Tak.
The targeted sites include the Second Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge and Ban Huay Muang in Myawaddy, the Three Pagodas Bridge in Payathongzu, and Ban Mueang Daeng and the First Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Tachileik, Shan State.
Phumtham, who also serves as the defence minister, stated, “These measures have disrupted the infrastructure sustaining these criminal networks,” adding that the pressure has forced many operations to either relocate or cease entirely.
A final assessment of the policy’s impact is expected in June. Phumtham noted that while some scam operations have shifted to other regions, there has been an overall decline in criminal activity.
The government’s Seal, Stop, Save campaign, part of this strategy, is also addressing human trafficking and drug trafficking along the borders. Police have reported an approximate 60% increase in arrests and prosecutions compared to previous periods.
Phumtham acknowledged ongoing challenges in implementing the 3 Cuts strategy with neighbouring countries like Cambodia and Laos, where negotiations remain complex due to the need to balance enforcement with legitimate trade.
Some border business operators have expressed concerns about export impacts. Phumtham mentioned that a minority of traders, particularly those using unofficial crossing points, have been affected.
However, he assured that formal trade routes remain operational, with only controlled goods potentially linked to scam activities being restricted.
Repatriating victims, especially those from Africa, Latin America, and Ethiopia, remains difficult due to coordination issues with their home countries. Efforts are ongoing with NGOs to assist these victims.
Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa announced that the Ethiopian government has repatriated the first group of 282 call centre victims who were working illegally in Myanmar, with an additional 469 expected to return soon.
“This cooperation reflects growing international resolve to address the root causes of human trafficking and cybercrime,” Maris stated, following discussions with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos at a recent Brics meeting in Brazil, reported Bangkok Post.
In March, cybercrime reports fell by 20% from 31,159 cases in January, following the implementation of power and internet cuts.
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