Thailand Busts Illegal Gambling Ring Targeting Vietnam
Thai authorities have dismantled a large illegal online gambling operation that was targeting players in Vietnam. During a raid in Bangkok’s Makkasan district, police arrested 93 Vietnamese nationals believed to be involved in the scheme. According to local authorities, the operation was generating more than 100 million baht per day, roughly £2.3 million, through websites offering sports betting and online casino games.
Raid Reveals Ongoing Gambling Operation
The raid followed reports of unusual activity in the area. Authorities noticed a steady flow of foreign visitors to the property and received tips about the high number of people entering and leaving the building. The site was reportedly guarded by security staff and used a key-card entry system.
When officers entered the premises, they discovered individuals working at computers, with screens displaying gambling platforms in the Vietnamese language. The arrested workers told investigators they had been recruited for the operation and were receiving salaries of around 30,000 baht per month (approximately £704), paid directly into bank accounts in Vietnam.
Investigators believe the scale of the operation indicates a well-organised network. With daily revenue reportedly exceeding 100 million baht, authorities say the group had established a substantial cross-border gambling business before the raid shut it down.
Demand in Vietnam Drives Illegal Gambling Networks
All forms of online gambling remain illegal in Vietnam. Despite this, the country has developed a significant black market for offshore and unlicensed betting platforms. Estimates suggest Vietnamese players spend between $5 billion and $10 billion each year on these services.
The case highlights how criminal networks take advantage of this demand by operating from neighboring countries. Authorities believe some groups establish operations in rented properties with basic security systems while recruiting staff from the same markets they target, allowing them to run platforms in the local language and better connect with customers.
Vietnam Expands Access to Land-Based Casinos
While online gambling remains prohibited, Vietnam has gradually allowed locals limited access to land-based casinos through pilot programs. These initiatives permit Vietnamese citizens to enter certain integrated resorts that were previously reserved for foreign visitors.
In November, the government approved local entry at the Grand Ho Tram resort and the upcoming Van Don integrated resort as part of a five-year trial program.
The Corona Resort and Casino was the first property to test the scheme and has since received permanent approval to admit local players. After a six-year pilot period briefly disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic the program is continuing with financial eligibility requirements for participants.
Local players must demonstrate sufficient income and pay an entry fee, currently set at VND 2.5 million (£71.72) for a 24-hour pass or VND 50 million (£1,434) for a 30-day pass. As Vietnam gradually expands access to these venues, the initiative is expected to play a role in shaping the country’s broader tourism and entertainment sector.
