More than 100 individuals employed by call-centre scam operations in Myanmar have been released and returned to Thailand following a crackdown by Thai authorities, according to sources in Tachilek, a border city near Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district.

The Thai National Security Council ordered the suspension of electricity, internet services, and fuel exports to five Myanmar border areas on Wednesday to disrupt illegal scam operations.

The move aimed to weaken criminal enterprises engaged in online fraud and illicit gambling.

Following the utility cut, security forces in Tachilek, including police and soldiers, launched operations from Thursday to Saturday targeting gambling dens.

Several operators and employees were arrested, while authorities also detained individuals allegedly linked to online scam networks based near the border.

As a result of the crackdown and power shortages, scammers in Tachilek reportedly released over 100 employees, who have since returned to Thailand through Mae Sai district.

Sources suggest that scam operators are now seeking to relocate their operations elsewhere, as Myanmar officials intensify efforts to suppress these activities.

Additionally, the number of vehicles belonging to individuals working in online scamming operations has decreased at the First Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge, indicating a decline in activity in the region.

Electricity and fuel in Tachilek are currently being rationed for local residents, while villages near the city are experiencing fuel shortages and rising prices due to the disruption of supply chains.

The crackdown highlights growing regional efforts to combat online scams and illicit financial activities operating across the Thai-Myanmar border.