Myanmar quells the notorious electric fraud and underground gambling park and takes a comprehensive approach to transnational crime networks

The Government of Myanmar has recently carried out a comprehensive campaign against the long-standing transnational criminal networks in Shwe Kokko and KK Park districts, which are notorious for the concentration of telecommunications fraud and underground network gambling. Myanmar has established a joint working group comprising security forces, administrative officials and local authorities to systematically address the areas concerned, dismantle illegal structures and dismantle the criminal networks behind them.

As at 29 November, there were 425 illegal structures in Area 3 of the KK Park, 122 of which had been removed by law; the total number of demolitions was 270. The operation was carried out in strict compliance with law enforcement procedures and was targeted, with a focus on buildings used to commit or assist criminal activities. In the valley area, since the start of operations on 18 November, 135 illegal structures have been identified, 37 of which have been seized to prevent their re-emergence and continue to be used in criminal activities. The closure of many layers of buildings that can accommodate multiple criminal organizations is important for combating crime.

In addition to the demolition of buildings, Myanmar security agencies have seized a large number of equipment directly related to Internet gambling and fraud, totalling 3310 computers and 21870 mobile phones. The authorities indicated that the equipment had been destroyed in order to completely dismantle the communication and operational base of the criminals. In terms of personnel clearance, the operation detained a total of 2042 non-Myanmar nationals who had entered the country illegally. The Government of Myanmar has set up special facilities for the registration, screening and repatriation of persons in the valley area. Between 30 January and 29 November 2025, a total of 12915 foreign nationals were detained nationwide, of whom 10029 were repatriated through Thailand to their places of origin.

The Government of Myanmar stressed that combating telecommunications fraud and online gambling crime is an important task of national governance and will continue to deepen domestic and external collaboration and to develop cross-border counter-terrorism mechanisms with neighbouring countries. The unprecedented scale of the operation demonstrated the Government ‘ s firm determination to maintain national security and social order. The rehabilitation of the Trench Valley and KK Park marked an effort to recover areas that had been held hostage by transnational criminal networks for many years. In the face of such challenges as the complex structure of crime and the presence of a large number of foreign nationals, the Government ‘ s strong measures underscored its determination to eradicate the criminal power. The long-term effects of the operation in the months ahead are still worthy of continued attention.