Thailand's government has announced plans to reduce electricity supplies by 50% to Myanmar towns suspected of being used by criminal syndicates to run illegal operations.

The decision follows a meeting of the National Security Council (NSC), which involved officials from the Interior Ministry and the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA).

The areas in question, such as Shwe Kokko in Myawaddy, are known for hosting online scam syndicates targeting Chinese citizens.

The cutbacks are expected to impact several towns along the Thai-Myanmar border.

Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who is also a deputy prime minister, confirmed that the Foreign Affairs Ministry would inform Myanmar of the decision.

The NSC has the authority to cut power supplies to areas linked to criminal activity without needing cabinet approval, provided sufficient evidence is presented.

Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the Interior Ministry would work closely with the NSC to confirm the areas affected by criminal syndicates and prepare to implement power cuts.

The NSC has been under pressure due to China's request for action against the Myanmar-based scam gangs targeting Chinese citizens.

The PEA will conduct surveys in these areas before executing any power cuts.

The government has been criticized for delayed action against the criminal operations along the border, despite repeated calls for intervention.

Some have suggested that political challenges within the coalition may be hampering decisive action.