On September 18, the People's Court of Quang Tri Province held an online first-instance trial for five Laotian defendants charged with “illegal transportation of narcotic substances.”

The accused include Tik Xayasane (born 1972), Lembi Kingvannouvong (born 1990), Sisamout Sisomboun (born 1996), Sengphet Keosevan (born 1996), and Sengphet Keonouvong (born 1986).

According to the indictment, beginning March 27, 2024, the group illegally transported nearly 100kg of methamphetamine from Laos into Vietnam through the Cau Treo International Border Gate in Ha Tinh Province, with plans to deliver it to Quang Tri for monetary compensation.

Among them, Sengphet Keosevan and Tik Xayasane, who speak Vietnamese, directly received the vehicle containing the drugs and acted as interpreters while handling meals and accommodation along the journey. Sengphet Keosevan also accompanied Sengphet Keonouvong to find a drug recipient in Lao Bao, while Lembi Kingvannouvong and Sisamout Sisomboun served as drivers.

On March 30, 2024, upon reaching Kilometer 73 on National Highway 9 in Lao Bao, Quang Tri Province, they were discovered and apprehended by local authorities.

Seized evidence included nearly 100kg of methamphetamine, a foreign-registered vehicle, numerous handbags, suitcases, mobile phones, passports, foreign currency, and cash.

At the trial, the defendants confessed to their crimes and asked the court for leniency, expressing remorse and a desire to reform. Through interpreters, they pleaded with the panel for reduced sentences and a chance to rebuild their lives.

After reviewing the case and evaluating each defendant’s role and level of involvement, the court sentenced all five to life imprisonment.

This is the first criminal case in Quang Tri Province to apply the newly revised law, effective from July 1, 2025, which eliminates the death penalty for eight offenses.

Hai Sam