Tue May 06 17:45:35 UTC 2025: ## US Imposes Sanctions on Myanmar Warlord for Cyber Scams and Human Trafficking
**Washington, D.C. – May 6, 2025** – The United States Treasury Department announced the imposition of sanctions on Myanmar warlord Saw Chit Thu, his two sons, and the Karen National Army (KNA) he leads. The sanctions, effective May 5th, 2025, target the group’s involvement in large-scale cyber scams, human trafficking, and cross-border smuggling operations.
Saw Chit Thu, described as a central figure in a vast network of cyber scams targeting Americans, is accused of generating billions in revenue through these criminal activities. The KNA operates within the Shwe Kokko Special Economic Zone on the Thai-Myanmar border, using the area to house and exploit victims forced into online scams.
The sanctions freeze any US assets held by Saw Chit Thu, his sons Saw Htoo Eh Moo and Saw Chit Chit, and the KNA, prohibiting Americans from engaging in business with them. This action follows similar sanctions imposed by Britain and the European Union. The move is the first Myanmar-related sanction imposed since President Trump took office.
The Treasury Department highlighted the human cost of these operations, noting that hundreds of thousands have been trafficked across Southeast Asia to work in these scam operations. Deputy Secretary Michael Faulkender stated that these operations deprive victims of their savings and security while enriching criminal organizations.
Saw Chit Thu’s close ties to Myanmar’s military junta, evidenced by an honorary title awarded by General Min Aung Hlaing in 2022, further underscore the severity of the situation. The US has imposed multiple sanctions on Myanmar’s military regime since the 2021 coup. This latest action underscores the ongoing commitment to combating transnational crime and holding accountable those responsible for human rights abuses.
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