Fraud cases committed by telecom scam gangs, known locally as Zhapian, have increased, raising growing concern among private bank account holders in Myanmar about the security of their funds.

Since mid-2025, people operating money transfer and exchange services between Myanmar and foreign countries have increasingly had their private bank accounts suspended or closed over suspected links to telecom scams, according to a Myanmar–Thailand money transfer service operator.

“When bank accounts are closed, businesses are severely affected, and it becomes very difficult to continue operations. Even people who provide money transfer services without knowing they are linked to Zhapian gangs may end up facing bank account suspension or closure,” he told Shan Herald.

Police Brigadier General Kyaw Lin, the spokesperson for Myanmar Police, under the command of the junta, said more than 2,300 SIM cards and 149 bank accounts linked to telecom scam operations in the country have been frozen.

“We have blocked more than 2,300 SIM cards and shut down payment accounts. In coordination with the Central Bank, we also identified and suspended 149 bank accounts that may be connected to fraud cases,” he said.  

The junta’s transport and communications ministries also worked together to identify and obtain accurate personal information on individuals whose bank accounts and SIM cards were frozen.

A money transfer business operator has warned people to be extra careful when transferring or exchanging money to avoid being inadvertently entangled in the criminal activities of Zhapian gangs and consequently having their bank accounts closed.

“You’re responsible for your own bank account, so you need to be very careful about its security. Be especially cautious when transferring money to people you don’t know or when exchanging money. The situation is really worrying. I’d also advise not keeping large amounts of money in your bank account,” he said.

Police Brigadier General Kyaw Lin said that anyone who has fallen victim to telecom scams and suffered financial losses can file a complaint at their nearest police station.

The junta has announced that it is working closely with neighboring governments to prevent telecom scam operations from establishing a solid foothold in Myanmar.