Vietnam authorities shut down illegal online gambling rings

Authorities in Khanh Hoa Province have dismantled multiple illegal online gambling operations run by foreign nationals in Nha Trang, seizing electronics and arresting dozens of suspects. The crackdown was confirmed on December 27 by local police.

Coordinated Raids Across the City
The Criminal Investigation Division of Khanh Hoa Police conducted a series of simultaneous searches on the evening of December 26, targeting five residential locations in Nha Trang, Nam Nha Trang and Tay Nha Trang wards. The operation revealed fully operational gambling dens with numerous participants and equipment.

Foreign Nationals Operating Under Tourist Visas
Investigations indicated that most of the suspects were Chinese nationals who had entered Vietnam on tourist visas to avoid employment regulations. The group rented residential properties as their base of operations, failing to register their stay, which flagged authorities to potential illegal activity.

Seizure of Digital Assets
Police confiscated significant technological infrastructure, including 40 laptops and 112 mobile phones, which were reportedly used to run the online betting platforms and for promotional activities. Authorities aim to analyze the devices to determine the scale of operations and user involvement.

Arrests and Investigation
A total of 31 individuals were detained, including 30 Chinese nationals and one Vietnamese citizen, indicating possible local collaboration. The authorities are continuing investigations to map out the full extent of the network.

The swift action by law enforcement sends a strong message against foreign-led cybercrime operations in Vietnam.