KNU calls for global action against Min Let Pan scam operations in southeast Myanmar

Mizzima

On 25 November, the Karen National Union (KNU) issued a statement calling for urgent international cooperation after its forces uncovered a large transnational scam compound in Min Let Pan, near Myawaddy, Karen State, during clashes with junta troops and the junta-aligned Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA).

The statement is as follows.

During the confrontation, elements of the junta-aligned Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA), led by Commander Naing Lwin, mounted coordinated attacks on KNU positions. Subsequent assessments confirmed that Naing Lwin was operating under the direct command of Sai Kyaw Hla, one of four DKBA leaders designated for sanctions by the U.S. Department of the Treasury on 12 November 2025 for involvement in transnational criminal and scam operations.

In the course of defensive operations, KNU forces unexpectedly gained access to a DKBA stronghold following the surrender of more than 230 DKBA soldiers. The area where these troops were stationed was revealed to be a multi-layered, gated compound housing large-scale illicit operations involving several thousand individuals of various nationalities. KNU forces immediately secured the perimeter, restricted unauthorized movement, and prevented the escape of individuals suspected of involvement in criminal activities.

On 22 November 2025, the KNU assembled a ground assessment and operations team tasked with rescuing victims and dismantling the scam operations. The KNU leadership promptly notified relevant Thai and international authorities and agencies, held consultations to obtain guidance on proper handling of the incident, and sought advice on the identification, protection, and safe repatriation of the individuals confined in the compound, as well as on evidence collection. A high-level KNU policy team-led by the KNU Vice Chair and senior KNU/KNLA leaders has been directing the response in close coordination with ground assessment teams and with KNU leaders from Dooplaya and Hpa-an Districts to ensure robust and effective management of all investigative and operational activities.

Deployment of the KNU Ground Assessment Team

On 23 November 2025 at approximately 07:00, a 10-member KNU ground assessment team, accompanied by KNU security forces, entered the compound. Their responsibilities included identifying individuals confined within the compound, collecting evidence, gathering testimonies, and compiling documentation necessary for future legal and humanitarian procedures. Priority was given to the repatriation of Thai citizens who had contacted Thai authorities for assistance the night before as well as women and children.

The assessment team, working alongside the KNU Police Force (KNPF), was instructed to adhere strictly to humanitarian principles, ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of victims while appropriately managing offenders. The KNLA maintained a protective presence, as surrounding areas continued to face assaults by the junta and allied forces, with frequent artillery shelling.

Findings from the Ground Assessment – Day 1 (23 November 2025)

Approximately 20 concrete buildings were discovered within the compound, including two four-story buildings densely occupied and actively conducting scam operations with computers and IT equipment. A hospital and several residential structures were also identified.

An estimated 2,000 individuals were found confined within the compound, lower than initial expectations prior to entry.

396 individuals (83 female, 313 male) from eight countries Ethiopia, Rwanda, Egypt, Thailand, Laos, the Philippines, China, and Malaysia were identified and fingerprinted.

Computers and mobile devices were dismantled and seized for expert forensic investigation, halting ongoing scam operations.

Several large safe boxes (approximately 4 feet in height) were discovered, many of which remain locked.

28 Thai citizens were safely transferred to the appropriate Thai authorities for further legal processing in accordance with Thai law.

Findings from the Ground Assessment – Day 2 (24 November 2025)