SpaceX has disconnected over 2,500 Starlink devices used by more than 30 suspected “scam compounds” in Myanmar. These compounds are believed to be involved in human trafficking and forced labor, generating tens of billions of dollars annually through scams and deception. The move comes after one compound, KK Park, was taken over by the military last week.
Campaigners have long warned that Starlink technology has enabled these crime syndicates to operate from remote locations along the Thai-Myanmar border. Workers are lured with false promises, only to be held captive and forced into criminal activity. SpaceX’s action aims to prevent further misuse of its service and maintain trust in its platform.
Despite this move, many scam compounds remain active along the border, employing tens of thousands of people globally. It is unclear whether they have lost access to Starlink services, which has become a key component of Myanmar’s wartime economy.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpd2e5541d1o