Vietnamese and Laotian authorities have dismantled a major online betting ring. Authorities linked the ring to nearly VND 1.3 trillion ($50 million) in illegal wagers through a coordinated operation. According to Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Security, the crackdown targeted a cross-border gambling network. Authorities conducted multiple raids in Vientiane, Laos. Vietnamese nationals were reportedly running foreign-hosted gambling websites.
The operation revealed that the group operated sophisticated online platforms. These platforms featured live broadcasts and social media marketing. The group used these tactics to attract a large number of players. The network allegedly targeted both local and international gamblers, with some reports indicating that the group managed multiple websites simultaneously. At the heart of the illegal network were Mai Anh Viet, 44, from Hanoi, and Nguyen Huu Son, 41, from Ho Chi Minh City. The two allegedly coordinated the operation. They deployed Vietnamese nationals to Laos and assigned family members to manage the gambling platforms in shifts.
During the May 19 raids, Laotian authorities seized 35 mobile phones, 12 desktop computers, and 25 laptops. In addition to the confiscated devices and documents, authorities arrested 29 Vietnamese suspects and handed them over to Vietnamese authorities. Investigations expanded in Vietnam. Authorities uncovered more equipment and additional evidence of the network’s operations. This included details on financial transactions and betting patterns.
Authorities believe the gambling ring maintained meticulous records of user activity and financial transactions with international operators. Following the operation, authorities charged 31 individuals. Of these, 27 face charges for organizing gambling activities, and 4 are accused of participating in illegal gambling. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the operation. Efforts continue to identify additional collaborators involved in the illegal activities.
