Vietnam and Laos dismantle cross-border gambling network
Major online betting ring linked to nearly VND1.3trn in illegal wagers shut down.
Key points:
– Joint police operation seizes computers, phones and livestreaming equipment
– Vietnamese suspects managed foreign-hosted gambling sites from Laos
– 31 individuals charged following international investigation
A coordinated operation between Vietnamese and Laotian authorities has led to the takedown of a cross-border online gambling ring accused of facilitating nearly VND1.3trn ($50m) in illegal betting, according to Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Security, as reported by VnExpress.
The crackdown saw multiple raids in Vientiane, Laos, where Vietnamese nationals had allegedly been operating foreign-hosted gambling websites. The group is accused of running sophisticated online platforms, complete with live broadcasts and marketing on social media to attract thousands of players.
At the centre of the operation is 44-year-old Mai Anh Viet from Hanoi, who allegedly worked in partnership with Nguyen Huu Son, 41, from Ho Chi Minh City. Authorities say the two orchestrated the network by deploying Vietnamese nationals to Laos and assigning family members to manage the gambling platforms in shifts.
During the May 19 raids, Laotian police confiscated 35 mobile phones, 12 desktop computers and 25 laptops. A total of 29 Vietnamese suspects were also apprehended and handed over to Vietnamese authorities, along with the seized equipment and documents.
Good to know: Online gambling remains illegal in Vietnam, where authorities continue to prioritise cybercrime enforcement, especially targeting operations involving foreign-based platforms
Back in Vietnam, investigators widened their search, uncovering more equipment believed to have been used to promote and manage the illegal services. The ring is also believed to have maintained detailed records of user activity and financial transactions with international operators.
To date, 31 people have been charged. Of these, 27 face charges for organising gambling while four are accused of participating in illegal gambling. The investigation remains ongoing.
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