The arrested individuals trafficked a total of over 500 kilograms of gold bars from China into Vietnam, valued at more than VND1 trillion (approx. US$50 million).

The alleged ringleaders are Tran Thi Hoan, the de facto owner of Hoan Hue Gold and Jewelry Co., Ltd. in Lao Cai province that borders China, and Pham Tuan Hai, former director of Thang Long Trading and Service Co., Ltd.

According to the investigation, from September to November 2024, Hoan repeatedly purchased gold smuggled from a Chinese woman known as Ba Beo. The gold, reported to be of 99.99% purity, was smuggled across the Lao Cai International Border Gate, concealed in shoes to avoid detection.

Hoan is accused of purchasing nearly 100 kilograms of gold, valued at around VND208 billion (US$8.5 million), from this source.

In addition, Hoan allegedly bought smuggled gold from Pham Tuan Hai, who sourced it from a Chinese national. Between September and December 2024, Hai supplied Hoan with approximately 424 kilograms of gold, worth over VND943 billion (US$38.5 million). Hoan also helped Hai sell 25 kilograms of gold in Hanoi, worth VND56 billion (US$2.3 million).

To evade authorities, the suspects used sophisticated tactics, including hiding gold in clothing, transporting it through public restrooms, and transferring it via third-party locations such as a billiards hall. In later stages, they delivered directly to consumers in Hanoi.

In total, Hoan has been accused of trafficking and distributing more than 500 kilograms of smuggled gold, with an estimated value exceeding VND1.2 trillion (US$50 million). The case is now being handled in accordance with Vietnamese law.

Authorities crack down on illegal gold smuggling from China

VOV.VN - The Border Guard Command of Lao Cai province on September 12 announced that they have dismantled a smuggling ring illegally transporting gold bars from China into Vietnam, through the Lao Cai international road border gate.