Thailand Threatens to cut Power Supply to Myanmar Amid call Center Gang Crisis
on February 4, 2025, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Mr. Phumtham Vejchai, made a bold announcement at the Government House: Thailand will cut electricity supply to Myanmar’s border regions in response to the escalating crisis caused by transnational call center gangs. This decision follows findings by the National security Council (NSC) that these gangs are severely impacting Thailand’s national security and economy.
A Decades-Long Power Agreement Under Scrutiny
Thailand has been supplying electricity to Myanmar since 1992, initially as a humanitarian measure to support local populations. Over time, this arrangement expanded to include border regions without requiring Cabinet approval. However, recent investigations revealed that electricity supplied by the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) is being used to power illegal call center operations.
Mr.Phumtham emphasized that the PEA has the authority to reduce or halt electricity supply under Article 51.1 and 51.2 of its regulations if national security is at risk. “If there is information that the electricity buyer from the PEA to the call center gang or the transnational crime gang, the PEA can exercise the rights under the electricity distribution contract to be less or refrain from electricity,” he stated.
The Call Center Gang Crisis
The call center gangs have wreaked havoc on Thailand, with data from the Technological Crime Suppression Center revealing that over 500,000 Thai citizens fell victim to these scams between June 2022 and June 2024. The financial damage exceeded 60,000 million baht, destabilizing the country’s economic and social dimensions.
Mr. Phumtham expressed his frustration with the lack of action,stating,“Today I will order the NSC to notify the PEA. This matter is violent. Will have to proceed to cut the power instantly. Not to wait and go back and forth as it happened and was a problem.”
immediate Action Ordered
The Deputy Prime Minister made it clear that the PEA must act swiftly. “If not acting immediately, he will borrow to help the government. Please practice immediately from today onwards. Confirm that the cutting of electricity does not need to enter the Cabinet,” he declared. He also stressed that the Ministry of foreign Affairs must engage with Myanmar’s government to address the issue.
Key points at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Decision | Thailand to cut power supply to Myanmar’s border regions |
| Reason | Electricity used by transnational call center gangs |
| Impact | Over 500,000 victims, 60,000 million baht in damages |
| Authority | PEA empowered under Article 51.1 and 51.2 to halt supply |
| Next Steps | Immediate action ordered; no Cabinet approval required |
A Call for Accountability
Mr. Phumtham’s announcement underscores Thailand’s commitment to protecting its citizens and national security. “It is indeed the duty of the PEA to proceed immediately if the society recognizes.Including the people along the border,” he said.As Thailand takes this decisive step, the focus now shifts to myanmar’s response and the broader implications for regional stability. Will this move curb the operations of transnational crime networks,or will it escalate tensions between the two nations? Only time will tell.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to our coverage.The recent cabinet meeting brought to light critical discussions surrounding electricity management and its broader implications.Deputy prime Minister and Minister of interior, Mr. Anutin Charnwirakul, was at the center of these talks, with reporters pressing for clarity on the measures being taken.The urgency of the matter was underscored by Mr. Phumtham’s statement: “Today is clear that ordering to cut. No need to ask why the police station is not cut or only interested in selling electricity. There is something that is more damaged than the fire that can be sold. As for whether there is outside or not, I don’t know, but to finish this matter.”
The focus of the meeting revolved around the potential power cuts in specific areas,including the city of Choice and PP Park. Mr. Phumtham emphasized the need for decisive action, stating that the issue must be addressed clearly and in accordance with established measures. He acknowledged the complexity of the situation, particularly in areas where electricity sales have been problematic. “If allowing those areas to cause problems for the country, he is also responsible,” he added, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
One of the key concerns raised was the role of external factors in exacerbating the issue. While Mr. Phumtham admitted uncertainty about outside influences, he stressed the importance of resolving the matter swiftly. The discussion also touched on the possibility of borrowing to aid the government, though this was deemed a heavy burden. “Borrowing to help the government is considered heavy,” he noted,suggesting that alternative approaches must be explored based on the nature of the offense.
The meeting also addressed the broader implications of electricity mismanagement, particularly in border areas. Mr. Phumtham mentioned the Mae Sot border area of Tak Province, where the Rajamanu Special Task Force Unit has been actively involved. Efforts to coordinate with Myanmar regarding electricity distribution were highlighted, with plans to assess the situation on the ground. “If able to coordinate with Myanmar, they will go down to see the real area,” he stated, emphasizing the need for cross-border collaboration.
To summarize the key points discussed during the meeting, the table below provides a concise overview:
| Key Issue | Details | Action Proposed |
|——————————–|—————————————————————————–|————————————————————————————|
| Power Cuts | Focus on Choice city and PP Park | Clear measures to address the problem |
| Electricity Sales | Concerns over mismanagement and external influences | Immediate action to prevent further damage |
| Borrowing for Government Aid | Considered a heavy burden | Explore alternative approaches based on the offense |
| Border Coordination | Mae Sot border area and collaboration with Myanmar | Assess the real situation and coordinate with neighboring countries |
The discussions at the cabinet meeting underscored the need for swift and decisive action to address the challenges surrounding electricity management. As Mr. Phumtham aptly put it, “We are not kind. Send the fire to and do something like that and we are still still?” This statement reflects the urgency and determination to resolve the issue, ensuring that the country’s resources are managed effectively and responsibly.
Q&A on thailand’s Electricity Management and Regional Security
Editor: Mr. Phumtham, your recent proclamation emphasized Thailand’s commitment to protecting its citizens and national security. can you elaborate on the steps being taken to address electricity mismanagement and its implications for regional stability?
Mr. Phumtham: Certainly. The focus is on taking decisive action in areas like Choice City and PP Park,where electricity sales have been problematic. We must implement clear measures to prevent further damage, especially in regions where mismanagement could harm national security. Additionally, we are coordinating with myanmar to address cross-border electricity distribution, notably in the Mae Sot border area of Tak Province.
Editor: There are concerns about external influences exacerbating these issues. How is the government addressing this uncertainty?
Mr. Phumtham: While we acknowledge the possibility of external factors, our priority is resolving the matter swiftly. We are focusing on internal mechanisms to prevent further complications. Borrowing to aid the government has been considered, but it’s a heavy burden. Instead, we are exploring alternative approaches tailored to the nature of the offense.
Editor: Could you provide more details on the coordination efforts with Myanmar?
Mr. Phumtham: our collaboration with myanmar is crucial, especially in border regions like Mae Sot. The Rajamanu Special Task Force Unit is actively involved, and we plan to assess the situation on the ground. if prosperous, this coordination will help ensure effective electricity distribution and enhance regional stability.
Editor: What are the broader implications of these measures for thailand and the region?
Mr. Phumtham: These actions are not just about electricity management; they are about safeguarding national security and fostering regional collaboration. By addressing these issues decisively, we aim to curb transnational crime networks and prevent tensions from escalating between neighboring countries.
Summary of Key Points
| Key Issue | Details | Action Proposed |
|---|---|---|
| Power Cuts | Focus on Choice City and PP Park | Implement clear measures to address the problem |
| Electricity Sales | Concerns over mismanagement and external influences | Take immediate action to prevent further damage |
| Borrowing for Government Aid | Considered a heavy burden | Explore alternative approaches based on the offense |
| Border Coordination | Mae Sot border area and collaboration with Myanmar | Assess the situation and coordinate with neighboring countries |
Conclusion: The discussions during the cabinet meeting highlighted the urgency of addressing electricity mismanagement and its broader implications for national security and regional stability. By taking decisive action and fostering cross-border collaboration,Thailand aims to resolve these challenges effectively and responsibly.
