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.

Myanmar nationals living near the border with Tak province have gathered to protest against the Thai government’s decision to sever electricity and fuel supplies to their communities.

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. Parts of Myanmar bordering Thailand,