Myanmar Military Dismantles Major Cybercrime Hub, Detains 2,198

Myanmar’s military has launched a significant operation against online scam activities, shutting down a major cybercrime centre known as KK Park, located on the outskirts of Myawaddy, a trading town near the Thailand border. Over 2,198 people were detained during the operation, and military forces seized 30 Starlink satellite internet terminals, as reported by state media on October 20, 2023.

The crackdown at KK Park is part of an ongoing effort by the military to combat rampant online fraud, illegal gambling, and cross-border cybercrime that has plagued the region. These scams often target individuals worldwide, employing tactics such as romantic deception and fraudulent investment schemes to gain victims’ trust. Many of the workers recruited to these operations come from different countries, lured by false job promises and subsequently forced into criminal activities.

Details of the Operation

The military’s actions began in early September, with raids conducted at various locations associated with cybercrime. According to the Myanma Alinn newspaper, the army specifically targeted KK Park, a site that has gained notoriety for its involvement in such scams. While the military displayed photos of the raid, including images of soldiers and the seized equipment, the exact timing of these photographs was not specified.

Major-General Zaw Min Tun, a spokesperson for the military government, alleged that leaders of the Karen National Union, an armed ethnic group opposed to military rule, were complicit in these scams. This claim suggests a deeper connection between local militias and the cybercrime operations. The Karen National Union has denied any involvement, asserting that these allegations stem from earlier claims regarding land leases to companies affiliated with the group.

As part of their findings, the military reported that over 260 buildings in the area were unregistered. The operation reflects a broader pattern of military crackdowns on cybercrime, with previous efforts occurring earlier this year and in February 2023, when thousands of trafficked individuals were rescued from similar operations in cooperation with ethnic armed groups.

Impact and Global Context

The issue of cybercrime in Myanmar has gained international attention, particularly following sanctions imposed by the United States and Britain against organizers of a major Cambodian cybercrime ring. The sanctions highlight the growing concern over these operations, which have significant implications for global security and economic stability.

Starlink, operated by Elon Musk‘s SpaceX, has not been authorized to conduct business in Myanmar; however, numerous terminals have been smuggled into the country. The company maintains a policy against “conduct that is defamatory, fraudulent, obscene or deceptive,” which raises questions about the use of its technology in these cybercrime operations.

As Myanmar’s military continues to grapple with internal conflict and pressure from neighboring countries, the battle against cybercrime remains a critical front in the ongoing struggle for stability in the region. The recent actions against KK Park represent a significant step in addressing the challenges posed by online scams and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.