Thai electric authority prepared to cut power to call center gangs

BANGKOK, THAILAND — The Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) of Thailand has reaffirmed its readiness to cut electricity supply to areas in Myanmar where call-center gangs are operating.
This initiative is part of efforts to combat cross-border scams targeting foreign nationals.
The PEA has a history of taking swift action when instructed by relevant authorities, and it plans to do the same against these criminal networks.
Previous power cuts targeted illicit activities
Ansit Samphantharat, permanent secretary of the Interior Ministry and chairman of the PEA, highlighted past instances of electricity suspensions in Myanmar.
In 2023, the Myanmar embassy in Thailand requested the Thai Foreign Ministry to instruct the PEA to halt electricity distribution at two locations in Karen State: Ban Wang Pha in Mae Ramat district and Ban Mae Ku Mai Tha Sung in Myawaddy.
In 2024, another suspension occurred when the PEA ceased electricity supply from Chiang Saen district in Thailand to Pong City in Tachileik, Myanmar. These actions were part of broader efforts to address illegal activities in the region.
“As a result, the PEA has now discontinued electricity trade with the neighboring country at a total of three locations,” Ansit stated.
Swift response promised against scam networks
The PEA assured that it would act immediately upon receiving verified information from security agencies about areas where scam call center gangs are operating. These gangs reportedly use electricity to facilitate fraudulent schemes targeting victims abroad.
The authority also called on the public and organizations to report any suspicious activities directly to the PEA or the Ministry of Interior. By disrupting power supply, the PEA aims to weaken criminal networks that rely on infrastructure for their operations.
Broader implications for regional security
This move aligns with Thailand’s ongoing efforts to combat transnational crime and enhance regional security. Call center scams have become a growing concern across Southeast Asia, with many operations based in border areas like Myawaddy. Cutting off the electricity supply is seen as a practical measure to disrupt their activities and support law enforcement efforts.
By leveraging its control over cross-border electricity distribution, the PEA is playing a critical role in addressing these challenges and safeguarding both Thai and international communities.