Vietnamese Police Dismantle Major Drug Trafficking Network

Photo courtesy of VN Express

Vietnamese police have dismantled a major transnational drug trafficking network, arresting 13 suspects and seizing 777 kg of synthetic narcotics. The Ministry of Public Security's Drug Crime Investigation Police Department announced the operation's success on Thursday. This months-long investigation, starting in July, uncovered interconnected smuggling rings involving Lao and Vietnamese operatives.

The operation began after detecting suspicious activities from Hanoi residents and a Laos-to-Vietnam smuggling ring. Investigations revealed that both networks were connected, operating with high sophistication. The alleged mastermind, known as "Long", remains a fugitive overseas, coordinating via encrypted apps.

Key suspect Chu Anh Tuan from Phu Tho, recruited by Long, handled large drug shipments across Vietnam. Tuan received a shipment of 300 kg in May, which was discreetly distributed within two months. Tran Duc Thanh, another operative, smuggled 930 kg from Laos in August, employing a container truck to transport the narcotics to Hanoi.

Raids on November 21 resulted in the arrest of Tuan and accomplices in Phu Tho, seizing 706 kg of synthetic drugs. Simultaneous actions in other provinces secured 11 more arrests and an additional 70 kg of narcotics. The operation identified "Long" as Tran Van Quyet, a fugitive hiding near the Golden Triangle.

Authorities regard this as a significant victory, highlighting the effectiveness of coordination between police and border defenses. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh praised the involved units in an October commendation letter, reported VN Express.

Key Takeaways

• A major drug trafficking network has been disrupted, with 13 arrests and 777 kg of drugs seized.
• The operation underscores sophisticated trafficking techniques using encrypted communication.
• Efforts continue to apprehend the fugitive mastermind coordinating from abroad.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-11-24