Thailand has cut electricity, internet and fuel supplies to five border areas in Myanmar, a senior Thai minister said on Wednesday, as the Southeast Asian nation steps up efforts to choke scam centres that have become a growing security concern.

Thailand on Wednesday cut off power supplies to areas in Myanmar where scam networks operate, following a public outcry demanding government action to tackle the problem.

The power cut at 9 a.m. local time affects Myanmar’s Payathonzu in Mon state, Ban Muang Daeng and the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Tachileik, Shan state, and the eastern town of Myawaddy in Kayin state, he said.