Six Filipinos Detained for Tourist Scam in Vietnam

Six Filipino nationals have been arrested in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, for allegedly operating a card game scam targeting tourists. Local police identified the suspects as including Del Rosario Rafael Macapanas, believed to be the ringleader, who was responsible for organizing the operation and distributing the proceeds among accomplices. The other five suspects are Pardo Oscar Winkler, De Vera Diosdado, Pardo Maria Lanie, Villarin Bregida, and Bernardino Rolando Lim. Authorities stated that the group is suspected of carrying out at least 18 scams between May 2025 and July 2026, defrauding foreign tourists of approximately US$10,000. The modus operandi involved approaching mostly elderly solo travelers, gaining their trust, and luring them to rented locations where accomplices would pose as gamblers. Victims were initially allowed to win to foster a sense of false security before being persuaded to withdraw more cash. The gang would then create a distraction and flee with the money. Vietnam has been actively promoting itself as a tourist destination, aiming to attract more international visitors. Such criminal activities pose a risk to the country's image and its burgeoning tourism sector. While the Vietnamese government is committed to maintaining security and fostering a favorable investment environment, crimes targeting foreign tourists remain a concern. This incident highlights ongoing efforts to crack down on foreign criminal elements operating within Vietnam. Source: VnExpress International