Electricity Cut Off from Myanmar Casino Town

Myanmar’s authorities are continuing their crackdown on gambling. In addition to issuing a cease and desist order to Shwe Kokko, they have also shut off power to the entire town.

The town is widely viewed as a hub for casinos and other activities. Earlier this week, the Myanmar Provincial Electricity Authority, or PEA was ordered by the country’s military regime to disconnect the town completely in order to shut down the casinos.

Reports have suggested that China is involved in Myanmar’s crackdown on gambling as it seeks to prevent Chinese nationals from gambling while traveling.

Following the cutting off of Shwe Kokko, the Karen Border Guard Force has threatened to close the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridges if electricity is not restored. The town is located next to the border between the two countries and, as such, attracts players from both.

The Karen Border Guard Force is arguing that the complete absence of electricity is causing problems for local residents and that the effects are going to become more serious as time goes on.