Buildings at the notorious KK Park and Shwe Kokko scam compounds in Myawaddy, Myanmar, have been demolished following an unprecedented regional crackdown.

According to a joint report published by TCIJ and Prachatai (in Thai), pressure on the scam industry across the Mekong region reached unprecedented levels between late 2025 and early 2026. This sustained pushback has culminated in the physical destruction of facilities at two of the most infamous cyber-scam hubs located just across the Thai border.

However, the demolition of these buildings does not mean the criminal networks have been eradicated. The report notes that the scammers have not disappeared, but are instead adapting to the crackdown and shifting their operations in new directions following the actions in Myawaddy.

What this means for expats in Thailand

While the physical compounds are located in Myanmar, their immediate proximity to the Thai border town of Mae Sot makes this a relevant security development for anyone living in Thailand. The displacement of these massive scam operations has a few practical implications:

• Scams will continue: The destruction of KK Park and Shwe Kokko infrastructure will not immediately stop the flow of scam calls, SMS phishing, or online fraud targeting residents in Thailand. Operators are relocating, not retiring.
• Border scrutiny: Expats traveling near the Tak province border, particularly around Mae Sot, should expect continued high security and strict immigration checks as authorities monitor the fallout and movement of displaced individuals from Myawaddy.
• Evolving tactics: As these syndicates are forced out of their established mega-compounds, their methods of recruitment and targeting are expected to shift. Maintain strict operational security regarding unsolicited job offers or investment opportunities.

The regional effort to dismantle these centers is a significant step, but residents must remain vigilant as the syndicates adapt to their new reality.