According to the municipal police’s drug crime investigation unit, the individuals were involved in drug possession and the organisation of illegal drug use. The arrest was made during a citywide crackdown on crime aimed at ensuring public security and social order ahead of the Lunar New Year of the Horse 2026.

Investigators uncovered an illegal cannabis distribution network operating through online platforms. Dozens of individuals were summoned for questioning as police expanded the investigation into drug trading, organisation of drug use and illegal consumption.

Initial tests showed that all suspects involved in the case tested positive for drugs. Police seized more than 3.2 kilograms of cannabis and 139 e-cigarette devices containing cannabis oil.

Ho Chi Minh City police said the case is part of a broader campaign targeting drug-related crimes during the Lunar New Year period. Authorities reiterated their firm stance against the abuse of business and tourism activities for illegal purposes, while continuing to roll out comprehensive measures to curb drug crimes and related social evils.

The city has set a target of becoming drug-free by 2030 and is implementing a “three reductions, five increases” strategy. The plan focuses on reducing drug supply, demand and harm, while increasing leadership effectiveness, enforcement capacity, inspection and supervision, resource mobilisation and the application of digital transformation.

By 2026, the city aims to ensure that all educational institutions, healthcare facilities and public agencies are drug-free. By 2029, all wards and neighbourhoods are expected to meet the criteria for drug-free areas, with the ultimate goal of eliminating drugs entirely by 2030.

Police statistics show that between 2020 and 2025, Ho Chi Minh City handled nearly 10,000 drug-related cases involving more than 25,000 suspects, seizing large quantities of synthetic drugs, heroin, weapons and crime-related equipment.

As of mid-December 2025, the city recorded more than 25,000 drug users and individuals under post-rehabilitation management. More than 67% were using multiple types of drugs, while over 12,000 addicts were living in the community, identified as a major source of demand and a potential driver of other crimes.

Lao national arrested with over 12,000 synthetic drug pills in Vietnam

VOV.VN - Vietnamese border guards in Quang Ngai province have arrested a Lao national for transporting more than 12,000 pills suspected to be synthetic drugs.