On Feb. 5, starting at 9 am, Thailand cut off electricity to five power supply points along its border with Myanmar as part of efforts to tackle cross-border telecom fraud.

This power outage affects regions like Tachileik and Myawaddy, raising concerns among residents in Myawaddy about potential fuel shortages, prompting many to rush to buy fuel.

The Tachileik area, situated at the junction of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand, relies on electricity imports from Thailand and Laos. Reports indicate that around 7,500 households, numerous temples, schools, military camps, and hospitals have been impacted.

There are reports that the fraud center in the area continues to operate. Residents say that several large diesel generators have been seen arriving in the town over the past two days, allowing the fraud center to operate even after the electricity supply was cut off in Thailand.

Residents in Payathonzu, across from Thailand's Changwat Kanchanaburi province, have faced power issues since early February, while businesses continue using generators. Additionally, Thai authorities have halted oil exports to Myanmar, leading to rising fuel prices and panic buying in neighboring areas.

Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand convened a National Security Council meeting on Feb. 4, where it was determined that telecom fraud poses a significant threat to national security. As a result, the council decided to cut electricity, internet, and fuel supplies to five key areas in Myanmar, coordinating this action with a broader border lockdown affecting 51 districts. The Provincial Electricity Authority of Thailand, which oversees local power sales, operates under the Ministry of Interior.

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