Report 31 Arrested in HCMC Crackdown on Illegal Laughing Gas Network

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of VN Express

 

In a sweeping operation in Ho Chi Minh City, police have arrested 31 individuals allegedly involved in running a vast illegal laughing gas supply network. This organisation reportedly serviced numerous bars and restaurants across the city, raking in more than VND 105 billion (approximately 137 million Thai Baht).

 

The arrests on Saturday are part of a citywide campaign targeting banned substances, spearheaded by Lieutenant General Mai Hoang, the Director of HCMC Police. Authorities conducted extensive inspections at various venues, including Public Luxury in Tan Hung Ward and Master SG in Ben Thanh Ward, uncovering widespread use of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas.

 

Police discovered substantial quantities of gas cylinders concealed in warehouses, leading to a broader investigation pinpointing 30-year-old Tran Tuan Kiet as the operation's mastermind. The police assert that Kiet's network operated from three key locations at the city's outskirts, used for storing and refilling nitrous oxide cylinders.

 

The searches unearthed an alarming 22 tons of gas, alongside over 1,400 cylinders, 100 kg of balloon shells, and specialised decanting equipment. Laughing gas, while legally used as a light anaesthetic in medical settings such as dentistry, poses significant health risks when abused recreationally. Excessive use can result in dangerous hallucinations, particularly in confined spaces.

 

Investigators have classified N2O as a banned substance due to its addictive nature and potential health hazards. Despite being aware of the risks and legal prohibitions, Kiet and his associates purportedly continued to supply the gas to nightlife establishments, prioritising profit maximisation.

 

The police revealed that the group has sold thousands of N2O cylinders since early in the year, with transactions amounting to VND 253 billion (around 331 million Thai Baht), and profiting over VND 105 billion.

 

As the investigation continues, authorities remain vigilant against similar illegal activities, reinforcing the city's commitment to tackling these dangerous networks at their roots.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-07-14

 

 

[Will B Good]

 

 

I bet they couldn't stop laughing.