US Sanctions Groups Behind Online Scam Centers in Cambodia and Myanmar

 The United States has imposed sweeping sanctions on nearly 20 individuals and organizations in Cambodia and Myanmar accused of running or protecting billion-dollar online scam networks that exploit tens of thousands of victims across Southeast Asia.

Deputy Treasury Secretary John K. Hurley announced the measures on September 8, warning that the scam industry not only threatens the financial security of Americans but also traps thousands of people in modern-day slavery.

Scam Hubs in Cambodia and Myanmar

In Cambodia, Washington targeted Dong Lecheng, Xu Aimin, Chen Al Len, Su Liangsheng, and six companies linked to them. US officials say these groups converted hotels, office buildings, and casinos into scam compounds.

Meanwhile, nine individuals and entities in Myanmar were blacklisted, including Tin Win, Saw Min Min Oo, and Chit Linn Myaing Company, accused of representing the Karen National Army (KNA). The KNA has long been suspected of protecting large-scale scam operations. Chinese businessman She Zhijiang, the mastermind behind the notorious Yatai New City project, was also sanctioned.

Billions Lost, Thousands Enslaved

Under the Global Magnitsky Act, sanctioned individuals face US visa bans, asset freezes, and restrictions on banking transactions.

  • US officials estimate 150,000 victims are currently trapped in scam centers in Cambodia.

  • Thai authorities report about 100,000 forced workers in Myanmar’s scam compounds.

  • In 2024 alone, Americans lost over $10 billion to online scams from Southeast Asia, a 66% increase compared to 2023.

Previous Actions

In May, the US had already sanctioned the KNA, labeling it a transnational criminal organization. Its leader, Saw Chit Thu, and his sons were accused of facilitating fraud, smuggling, and human trafficking around the city of Shwe Kokkko.

These sanctions mark a stronger US push to dismantle online scam hubs in Southeast Asia, which have become a growing global threat. By choking off financial networks and pressuring local power brokers, Washington hopes to curb the exploitation of vulnerable workers and the massive flow of illicit profits.


Al Jazeera, AA


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