Myanmar steps up crackdown on illegal gambling hubs

The Myanmar government has stepped up its enforcement campaign against illegal online gambling and scam operations in the Shwe Kokko and KK Park areas, demolishing additional unauthorised buildings linked to criminal activity. According to the state-owned Global New Light of Myanmar, the latest action brings the total number of demolished structures in KK Park to 519 out of 635 identified sites.

Authorities said the most recent demolitions took place in Section 3 of the Myawaddy -Maethawtalay area, commonly known as KK Park. Four illegal buildings, including one four-storey and three two-storey structures, were destroyed after being identified as bases for online gambling and scam operations. Joint teams comprising security personnel, administrative officials, and local authorities conducted the operation.

Heavy machinery has been used to complete demolition work across much of KK Park, while controlled burning using fire cylinders has been deployed since mid-December to ensure complete destruction of remaining structures. Officials confirmed that 71 buildings have now been fully demolished using this method. Equipment and materials linked to online gambling and scam activities were also systematically destroyed to prevent reuse.

The government reiterated that tackling illegal online gambling and scam networks is a national responsibility. Authorities said operations would continue in coordination with domestic forces and neighbouring countries to ensure such activities do not re-establish themselves in Myanmar.

Shwe Kokko and KK Park have been repeatedly cited as major hubs for cross-border online scams and illegal gambling, drawing regional attention. The latest actions signal Myanmar’s intent to dismantle the physical infrastructure supporting these operations and reflect a broader regional push to address illegal gambling activity across Southeast Asia.