National Unity Government accuses regime in Naypyidaw of supporting cyber scams in Myanmar

The National Unity Government (NUG) urged the international community on Tuesday to impose stricter sanctions on the regime in Naypyidaw for its alleged involvement in cyber scams along the Burma-Thailand border. It added that it is ready to cooperate on regional and international efforts to combat transnational crime, including cyber scam operations.

Nay Phone Latt, the NUG spokesperson, told a press briefing that the regime was responsible for supporting the Kokang Border Guard Force (BGF), which was ejected from northern Shan State’s Kokang Self-Administered Zone by the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) following its takeover of the region in late 2023. 

Six BGF leaders, who were held by the regime after the MNDAA takeover, were handed over to Chinese authorities in January 2024. Nay Phone Latt stated that Chinese media reported Kokang BGF leader Wei Huairen—also known as Wei San—testified in a Chinese court that he had received protection and authorization in return for payments to the military.