Picture courtesy of Amarin

 

The United States has imposed sanctions on several Thai and Myanmar entities accused of involvement in large-scale online investment scams that defrauded American citizens of billions of dollars. The U.S. State Department announced on 12 November 2025, that five individuals and three companies were blacklisted for their roles in forced labour and online fraud operations across Southeast Asia.

 

The sanctioned companies include Trans Asia International Holding Group (Thailand) Company Limited, Troth Star Company Limited and individuals linked to scam networks operating under the control of the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA). Among those named is Chamu Sawang, also known by his Chinese name Yu Jianjun, a Thai national accused of coordinating scam centres in cooperation with the DKBA.

 

According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Sawang serves as a director of Trans Asia International Holding Group, a company registered in Thailand. The department said he maintains ties with “Chinese grey networks” involved in regional cyber-fraud operations. The sanctioned entities allegedly provided logistical and financial support to scam compounds that exploit trafficked workers forced to participate in fraudulent investment schemes.

 

Washington’s action follows growing international concern over the surge in cross-border online fraud and human trafficking linked to criminal groups operating along the Thai–Myanmar border. These scam centres have become a major regional issue, drawing criticism from rights organisations and law enforcement agencies worldwide.

 

The Treasury Department estimated that American victims lost more than US$10 billion to such scams in 2024, a 66% increase from the previous year. Officials said the sanctions aim to disrupt the financial networks enabling these crimes and to pressure regional governments to intensify enforcement against human trafficking and cybercrime.

 

The U.S. statement also urged stronger cooperation between Thailand, Myanmar, and neighbouring countries to dismantle criminal operations that continue to exploit vulnerable workers and defraud victims globally. Amarin reported that Thai authorities have not yet issued an official response to the sanctions.

 

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Key Takeaways

 

• The U.S. sanctioned five individuals and three companies in Thailand and Myanmar for links to online scam operations.

• Thai national Chamu Sawang, alias Yu Jianjun, was named as a key figure tied to the DKBA-controlled scam networks.

• American losses from such fraud reached US$10 billion in 2024, a 66% annual increase.

 

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  Adapted  by  Asean  Now from Amarin 2025-11-14

 

 

 

 

Well, Prime Minister Anutin, the USA has now provided your with the names and addresses of the scammers, send in the law enforcement "soldiers" to arrest them.

On 11/14/2025 at 3:57 AM, Georgealbert said:

The U.S. sanctioned five individuals and three companies in Thailand and Myanmar for links to online scam operations.

Time someone did something... Thailand is dragging it's feet

The reality is the Burmese Junta protect these scam centres because they profit from them despite publicly condemning them. Thailand is complicit by openly supporting the illegally instated Burmese junta and very aware that Thais are also involved. Much like the supposed Cambodia border dispute which is about illegal activities, scam centres and Casinos. Its all pocket money for the respective militaries & the elite! 

Maybe all those corrupt Thai’s involved, despite their denials, are realising that their not hiding as deep under the radar as they think they are.