Myanmar scam city empties out as war approaches

Scores of people evacuating on the Laukkai-Lashio road in Myanmar. — Pic taken from social media

YANGON (AFP): A town in northern Myanmar notorious for gambling, prostitution and online scams is emptying out as war approaches, prompting thousands of residents to flee.

Ethnic minority groups last month launched an offensive against the military across northern Shan state, capturing several towns in what analysts say is the biggest challenge to Myanmar's ruling junta since it seized power in 2021.