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 measures were announced on the eve of PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s state visit to China, during which she is set to discuss anti-scam efforts with Xi Jinping.