They arrested 74 suspects and seized a large cache of technological devices, foreign currency, and criminal documents.

The criminal ring was led by Hoang Van Trung, 31, who orchestrated a large-scale scam through a fake gold trading platform ATFX, targeting hundreds of Vietnamese victims.

The syndicate operated in a highly sophisticated and organised manner, leveraging cross-border networks and foreign collaborators.

In February 2025, Dien Bien police uncovered the organisation’s activities and launched Special Case 625T, with the participation of nearly 200 officers from Vietnam and Laos.

After months of surveillance, cyber monitoring, and intelligence gathering, the police launched a raid in the Golden Triangle on July 5, arresting 45 suspects, including 14 Chinese nationals. 14 suspects were intercepted at Vientiane Airport while attempting to flee to Cambodia. 15 others were apprehended while illegally crossing the Tay Trang International Border Gate in Dien Bien province.

The police seized 314 mobile phones, 292 All-in-One computers, 36 desktop computer sets, 1,000 Laon SIM cards, 13 passports, and as well as thousands of US dollars, and Chinese Yuan, and pre-written scam scripts.

The police revealed that the group had created fake social media accounts, posing as successful individuals. After building trust through online relationships, they lured victims to invest in the fake gold trading platform ATFX, promising 24% daily returns.

Once substantial funds were deposited, victims were prevented from withdrawing money under the pretext of “system errors.” In some cases, the group blackmailed victims using private messages and sensitive images to extort additional funds.

On July 9, all 59 Vietnamese suspects and the seized evidence were escorted back to Dien Bien. The provincial police prosecuted 38 individuals for “Fraudulent appropriation of property” under Clause 4, Article 174 of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

This operation showcases the resolve, intelligence, and close coordination between Vietnamese and Lao police forces in combating cross-border crime. It also serves as a crucial lesson in addressing high-tech crime in the digital age, reinforcing our commitment to protecting the safety, trust, and property of our citizens in cyberspace,” said Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Xuan Lam, deputy head of the Criminal Police Division of the Dien Bien Provincial Police.

Vietnam receives back 177 individuals involved in online scams from Cambodia

VOV.VN - The Border Guard Command of Tay Ninh province has received 177 Vietnamese citizens handed over by the Vietnamese Embassy in Cambodia, who were involved in illegal labour and residence in Cambodia.