Myanmar forces seize drug labs and fraud hubs

Myanmar’s military has announced major seizures of drug‑refining equipment and telecom fraud operations in Shan State, following a series of raids in Hsipaw and Mongyai townships.

On 8 January, troops clashed with armed groups near Nalin Village in Hsipaw before uncovering sites used for online scams and gambling. Authorities confiscated laptops, desktop computers, mobile phones and Starlink devices, alongside chemicals and machinery linked to narcotics production. Among the haul were tablet‑making machines, stirring equipment, caustic soda and sodium powder, as well as uniforms bearing the insignia of the Shan State Army (SSA).

Further operations between 10 and 11 January in Mongyai Township revealed extensive drug‑refining facilities. Soldiers seized tents, large buildings, hundreds of barrels of chemical solutions, gas cylinders, steam pots and tablet machines. Six suspects allegedly linked to the SSA were arrested, with investigators finding vast quantities of white powder believed to be narcotics, along with motorcycles and generators.

By 11 January, seven suspected refining sites had been dismantled, yielding more than 1,300 fibre barrels, 443 gas cylinders, and numerous containers of acids and solvents. Experts conducting preliminary examinations confirmed the production of heroin and methamphetamine.

Officials say the crackdown is part of a wider campaign against cross‑border crime, including telecom fraud and online gambling, which has involved cooperation with neighbouring governments. The seized substances will be destroyed in line with official procedures, while suspects face prosecution.

-2026-01-12