On December 4, Infantry Division 44, in collaboration with the Border Guard Force (BGF) and Kayin State border agency, demolished a 13-story building in the Shwe Kokko area of Myawaddy district, Kayin State. This structure, located opposite Mae Sot district in Tak province, Thailand — a vital cross-border trade gateway — was suspected of housing online scam operations.

Myanmar demolishes building suspected of housing online scam operations. Video: Nation

A day earlier, Myanmar authorities had also demolished another building in the same area, drawing attention from residents across the Thai border. Thai authorities confirmed there were no casualties or damage on their side.

Myanmar's government announced plans to continue demolishing 63 to 64 similar buildings in the region, an operation expected to span several months.

According to the Myanmar Global New Light news agency, the government considers the eradication of illegal online scams and gambling a national priority. Myanmar is also cooperating with neighboring governments to ensure the elimination of this type of crime.

Online scam networks have proliferated across Southeast Asia, targeting internet users globally. While some individuals willingly work in these scam centers, many others are trafficked, subjected to torture, and detained under harsh conditions.

Ngoc Anh (Based on ANN, Nation, Global New Light)