A telecom scam operation building in Myawaddy Township

Transnational cyber scam syndicates operating south of the key border town of Myawaddy are systematically relocating deeper into territory controlled by the Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA) as fighting intensifies along the Thai-Myanmar border, residents and workers reported. The relocation follows weeks of heavy clashes between a resistance coalition led by the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and the Myanmar military along the Hpalu–Wawlay road. Escalating junta artillery bombardments and suicide drone attacks near Kasawwahlay, Kykawwahbo, and Yekonesakan have forced Chinese syndicate operators to abandon their compounds for safer DKBA-held areas. Local sources confirmed that scam operators, locally referred to as Zhapian gangs, are establishing new hubs in Sonseemyaing village, the DKBA’s headquarters, as well as in Taungni, Wawlay, and Warmeehta. “Junta artillery hit a DKBA post in Hpalu, and when suicide drones began striking the area, the Chinese operators no longer felt safe,” said a construction worker building new compounds for the operations. “They moved to Sonseemyaing and surrounding villages. We are currently erecting new facilities to house them.” Residents in Sonseemyaing reported an influx of Chinese nationals, Myanmar citizens, and other foreign workers entering the area, alongside a new scam complex dubbed “Shwe Taungni” established along a nearby mountain ridge. Locals added that DKBA soldiers provided armed escorts and security for the syndicates during the move. The DKBA officials did not respond to requests for comment. Meanwhile, the KNLA-led coalition has advised local civilians along the Hpalu–Wawlay transport corridor to remain on high alert as the military regime continues indiscriminate drone, artillery, and nighttime airstrikes across the region.