Vietnam: $70M Illegal Gambling Ring Results in Dozen Arrests

Gambling remains prohibited in many countries across Asia and while in some jurisdictions it is completely banned, others permit it under strict rules. Despite the tough laws that in some cases carry lengthy prison sentences, illegal gambling remains a challenge for countries in the region.

Police Seize Cash, Electronic Devices and Jewelry

In one operation against illegal gambling, a dozen people have been arrested and millions in cash was seized. Large-scale illegal gambling rings can quickly accumulate significant proceeds and at the same time, they are often associated with other unlawful activities such as money-laundering or even violent crimes and human trafficking.

As announced by the news outlet VN Express, a massive gambling ring was recently dismantled in Vietnam. The efforts of law enforcement resulted in the arrest of a total of 12 people for their suspected involvement in an online gambling operation. The suspects have been arrested during raids in Ben Tre province, while the value of the illegal gambling ring is estimated at millions of dollars.

Besides the arrest of a dozen suspects, law enforcement seized $72.1 million in cash, as well as a range of electronic devices, including smartphones, tablets and laptops. Expensive jewelry and firearms were also seized by police during the recent raids. What’s known so far is the illegal gambling ring promoted its services through social media and used “advanced technology” to conduct its operations.

It is unclear whether or not some of the ill-gained proceeds were transferred to foreign banks or whether cryptocurrency was used. With the investigation into the massive operation still ongoing, the recently released report suggested that the illegal gambling network operated through 30 branches and was tied to hundreds of accounts.

Three People Suspected of Being Ringleaders

A man identified with the initials V.V.L., reportedly collaborated with two others identified as N.A.K. and N.M.T. The trio are suspected of being the ringleaders of the illegal gambling operation evaluated at more than $70 million.

While the unlawful operation is still under investigation, law enforcement suspects that tens of others may have been involved in the illegal gambling ring. Penalties against illegal gambling in Vietnam vary in size. People found guilty of organizing such activities or engaging in the promotion of illegal gambling may be subject to imprisonment between three months and ten years.