Police in Lai Chau Province have dismantled a transnational cybercrime ring of 59 Vietnamese nationals operating in Cambodia, accused of defrauding more than 8,000 victims and stealing over 300 billion VND (approximately USD 12.2 million).

On October 29, Lai Chau Provincial Police announced the successful takedown of this large-scale, cross-border online fraud network, carried out in coordination with the Ministry of Public Security’s representative office in Cambodia, the Criminal Police Department, and Cambodian authorities.

The case, designated as Special Case No. 0525L, was launched under the direct oversight of Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Van Long, Deputy Minister and Chief of the Ministry of Public Security’s Investigation Agency, with close cooperation from specialized police units.

All 59 suspects, including 44 men and 15 women - all Vietnamese - were apprehended while actively committing fraud in Bokor Hill, within the Bokor Eco-Tourism Park complex, Tuek Chhou Ward, Bokor City, Kampot Province, Cambodia.

Among those arrested was Sung Thi Mai (also known as Vi), 26, from Bao Thang Commune, Lao Cai Province, who has been identified as the ringleader.

Authorities captured the entire leadership team, key operatives, and vital evidence during the coordinated bust.

This operation follows a breakthrough in June 2025, when Lai Chau police arrested four operatives acting as “tentacles” of the criminal organization, leading to a broader investigation.

According to investigators, the suspects used various deceitful tactics - impersonating delivery staff, police officers, military personnel, and even romantic partners - to trick victims across Vietnam and illegally obtain funds.

The total amount defrauded is estimated to exceed 300 billion VND (USD 12.2 million), affecting more than 8,000 individuals.

After screening and classifying the suspects, Cambodian authorities transferred all 59 individuals and the confiscated evidence to the Lai Chau Provincial Police Department for continued investigation.

The suspects are currently being processed at a border checkpoint and will be transported back to Lai Chau for further legal proceedings and case expansion.

Duc Hoang