Earlier this year, Vietnam’s Border Guard began detecting signs of a large-scale cross-border drug ring. In response, Operation QB525 was formed, with collaboration among the Border Guard forces of Quang Tri and Da Nang, the Central Region Drug and Crime Prevention Task Force, and other specialized units.

Investigations revealed that the traffickers were transporting narcotics from Laos into Vietnam via Quang Tri, passing through Da Nang, and continuing abroad. The group operated on a large scale and was prepared to resist law enforcement with violence if necessary.

Following extended tracking, at around 2:00 a.m. on August 15, surveillance teams executed their final plan. After nearly seven hours of waiting, at 9:00 a.m., the signal was given, and over 100 officers simultaneously surrounded two vehicles carrying the suspects in Hai Van Ward, Da Nang.

The operation unfolded with such precision and surprise that within just seven seconds, the entire team had subdued the suspects and secured the scene. Two individuals were arrested: N.T.L from Hoa Xuan Ward and D.B.H.C from An Khe Ward, both in Da Nang.

Authorities seized 295.5 kilograms of various narcotics, vehicles, and key documents. A search of N.T.L's residence uncovered two firearms - one AK-47 and one homemade gun - along with seven bullets.

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Nguyen Dinh Vinh (second from left), Standing Deputy Secretary of the Da Nang City Party Committee, and Luong Nguyen Minh Triet (second from right), Chairman of the Da Nang People's Committee, commend the officers. Photo: H.G

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Evidence collected during the operation. Photo: A.T

Speaking at the commendation ceremony, Chairman Luong Nguyen Minh Triet praised the outstanding achievement of Operation QB525. He emphasized that if this quantity of drugs had reached the streets, the consequences for public health and safety would have been devastating.

Triet noted that drug crime is becoming increasingly aggressive and dangerous, posing a growing challenge to law enforcement. He urged security forces to remain alert and vigilant, and he called on government agencies and citizens alike to form a united “steel shield” to protect the city.

In recognition of their efforts, the Da Nang Party Committee and People’s Committee awarded commendations to eight collectives and 22 individuals directly involved in the operation. The total reward amount was VND 200 million (approximately USD 7,900).

Ho Giap