Vietnam’s anti-narcotics police have dismantled a drug trafficking ring that used non-verified bank accounts and cryptocurrency for transactions.

The operation, codenamed 128T, led to the arrest of 10 suspects and the seizure of over 550 kilograms of dried marijuana, 10 kilograms of marijuana resin, and 1.2 tons of packaging materials.

On December 20, the Anti-Drug Crime Investigation Police Department (C04) announced the results of the investigation.

The network, led by overseas operatives, used online platforms and advanced technologies to coordinate operations within Vietnam.

Sophisticated methods and extensive collaboration

The criminals exploited logistics companies to distribute drugs across multiple provinces, including Hanoi, Dong Nai, Ha Tinh, and Binh Duong. They relied on non-verified bank accounts and cryptocurrency for payments, complicating detection efforts.

On November 15, police caught Duong Dinh Quang and Nguyen Tien Ddung red-handed in Binh Duong while transferring 350 kilograms of marijuana and 10 kilograms of marijuana resin. Follow-up raids in Ho Chi Minh City, Bac Giang, and Dong Nai uncovered an additional 200 kilograms of marijuana.

In total, the operation seized 550 kilograms of dried marijuana, 10 kilograms of resin, and packaging disguised as tea and food products. The ringleader, Dương Đình Quang, admitted to smuggling seven shipments - equivalent to two tons of marijuana -over the past two months.

This successful bust underscores Vietnam’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and safeguarding public safety. Investigations are ongoing to uncover further details of the network.

Dinh Hieu