The Thai government’s recent decision to cut off electricity and fuel supplies along its borders with Myanmar has ignited panic among residents of Myawaddy and surrounding regions, sparking severe shortages just hours after its announcement. On February 4, the Thai National Security Council (NSC) revealed its initiative to halt electricity, internet, and fuel distributions to five key locations along the border, citing these areas as suspected hubs for call-center scams.
The implementation of the power cut commenced on February 5, quickly sending residents scrambling to petrol stations. Local sources indicated widespread panic buying ensued, leading to swift depletion of fuel stocks. A resident of Myawaddy remarked, “The price was around 40 baht per litre for 92-octane fuel in the morning. But now, people are saying there’s no fuel available at all.” This statement encapsulates the distressing reality many experienced as fuel shortages began to emerge.
By 2:00 PM on the same day, numerous petrol stations were already devoid of fuel and had ceased operations entirely, reflecting the rush to secure what little supplies remained. Although the price of fuel hadn’t surged yet, fears loomed over potential hikes due to increased demand. Another local expressed a pragmatic view: “There won’t be a complete fuel shortage. Even if official imports are cut off, smuggling from Thailand will likely continue.”
This outage and the accompanying chaos occur amid rising international scrutiny directed at Myawaddy and Shwe Kokko, regions notorious for online scam operations. Alarm intensified following reports earlier this year involving the trafficking of prominent Chinese individuals, including actor Wang Xing, to scam syndicates within these areas.
To combat these illicit operations, authorities ramped up security measures and inspections along the border routes leading to Myawaddy. Preparing for possible humanitarian consequences, Thailand’s National Security Council held preliminary discussions with Myanmar leaders, discussing the power cut’s potential impacts.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai clarified on February 7, responding to rumors over the Tachileik checkpoint’s closure, “Such closure would be counterproductive, effectively forcing Myanmar to impose hardship on itself.” He assured the public of prior consultation about the power cuts with Myanmar officials, alongside coordination to address both international relations and humanitarian concerns.
The five targeted sites affected by the initial cuts include high-traffic areas such as Ban Phra Chedi Sam Ong—bordering Payathonzu—and two towns within Chiang Rai Province, which connect to Tachileik, as well as Mae Sot within Tak Province, adjacent to Myawaddy.
While officials acknowledge potential economic ramifications, the government maintains its primary focus remains on combating the severe national security threat posed by organized crime. Leading industry figures support this stance as well; Kriangkrai Thiannukul, chair of the Confederation of Thai Industries, stated, “Many countries are watching Thailand very closely at the moment. The government’s decisive action sends a strong signal... It will also boost the confidence of domestic and international investors.”
The acknowledgment of existing criminal activity based out of Payathonzu has surfaced concerns among security agencies. Chinese syndicates reportedly established various entertainment complexes and casinos, with approximately thirty thousand Chinese nationals reportedly conducting business there—a number deemed to grow.
Reaffirming the collaborative effort against human trafficking, the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) released statements affirming their intention to cooperate with authorities. They pledged to locate and repatriate trafficking victims and combat drug-related activities across their jurisdictions.
Throughout this ordeal, locals grapple with each rising complication, illustrating the tension straining communities dependent on supplies and stability. Amidst uncertainties surrounding fuel and services, local economies risk teetering on the brink. While officials work to navigate the chaos instigated by these power cuts, the situation poses serious questions for residents who depend on cross-border commerce.
The Thai government’s measures, albeit disruptive, reflect earnest intentions to address pressing criminal activities undermining regional security. Residents, meanwhile, hope for the swift restoration of stability to their lives and livelihoods as they navigate through this difficult period, holding onto the expectation of recovery and resilience.