YANGON: Myanmar authorities have arrested 777 people suspected of involvement in online scam and illegal online gambling operations during a security raid in the Kyauk Khat area of Myawaddy Township in Kayin State.
According to official information, those detained include 631 Chinese nationals, three Thai nationals and 143 Myanmar nationals.
Authorities also seized equipment allegedly used in the operations, including a Starlink satellite terminal, 85 computers and 183 mobile phones.
The government said security forces launched the operation after receiving intelligence on illegal scam compounds in the area.
It also claimed that clashes broke out during the raid with armed groups from the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and the People's Defence Force (PDF), alleging they had been providing protection to the scam operations in exchange for payment.
Officials said 13 members of the armed groups were killed during the operation, while nine firearms, ammunition, bunkers and other military-related items were seized.
The detainees are undergoing investigation and will face legal action under existing laws, while the confiscated equipment will be processed in accordance with legal procedures.
The government said it would continue working with neighbouring countries and international partners to dismantle online scam and illegal gambling networks operating in Myanmar. - Eleven Media/ANN
