Vietnam-Laos Police Bust Large-Scale Scam Ring, Arrest 91 Suspects

Vietnamese and Lao police have busted an international scam ring operating in Laos' northern Bokeo province, arresting 91 suspects, primarily Vietnamese nationals. The group is believed to have defrauded Vietnamese citizens of over VND 1.5 trillion (approximately USD 60 million). According to an announcement by Lao Cai Provincial Police, the joint operation on September 12 apprehended 64 Vietnamese and 27 foreign nationals. Among those arrested were identified ringleaders and key members. Law enforcement seized 65 computers and 192 mobile phones from the scene. The suspects allegedly used computer networks, telecommunications, and electronic devices to approach and defraud Vietnamese citizens. They reportedly created Facebook accounts, befriended victims, and lured them into completing orders on fake websites to earn commissions. Through this modus operandi, the ring is estimated to have defrauded thousands of Vietnamese citizens of over VND 1.5 trillion from early 2026 until their arrest. Following the crackdown, the General Department of Police of Laos handed over the 64 Vietnamese suspects and related evidence to Lao Cai Provincial Police for further investigation and legal proceedings.