Shan State, Myanmar — On December 2, Myanmar authorities arrested more than 40 individuals suspected of involvement in an extensive online fraud operation. Acting on a tip-off, security forces conducted a raid on a house in Naung Hee village, Tangyan Township, located in northern Shan State. The operation led to the detention of 18 Chinese nationals, including one identified as Chein Hla, and 17 men, including Myanmar national Ar Phyin, also known as Sauk Yee Chone, from Laukkai Township. Additionally, 10 women were arrested, all believed to be part of the criminal network.
Authorities seized a significant number of materials from the scene, including 26 computers, 130 mobile phones, three Wi-Fi devices, one Star Linkset, and a variety of weapons, including two handguns (a Beretta 9MM pistol and a CZ 75 D 9MM pistol), as well as rifles, magazines, and bullets. The police also found several walkie-talkies, motorcycles, and even a generator on the premises.
The arrested suspects are believed to have been running fraudulent schemes online, targeting victims through scams. The authorities have charged them under the Electronic Transactions Law (Section 33(a)) and the Myanmar Immigration Emergency Provisions Act (Section 13(1)).
The operation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing their investigations. This large-scale bust highlights the continued issue of online scams and related criminal activities in the region. Police have vowed to pursue further action against those involved and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.