Vietnamese police have detained dozens of foreign nationals after uncovering what authorities believe may be a sophisticated criminal operation involving drug use and suspected online fraud activities in Ho Chi Minh City.
The investigation began after local residents reported unusual activity at a lodging facility in Thu Duc, a rapidly developing district on the eastern side of Vietnam’s largest city. According to police, a group of foreign nationals had rented rooms for extended periods while maintaining an unusually low profile, rarely interacting with outsiders and typically leaving the premises only at night.
Acting on the reports, authorities carried out a late night raid on June 3, discovering five Malaysian nationals inside the property. During the search, officers allegedly found suspected narcotics, drug paraphernalia, and evidence suggesting illegal drug use.
The operation quickly expanded as investigators uncovered signs that the group’s activities may have extended beyond narcotics offenses.
Inside the premises, police reportedly found equipment resembling a small scale online call center, including computers, networking devices, and materials believed to be connected to telecommunications scams. Authorities also seized fake documents and props designed to imitate foreign law enforcement agencies, along with prepared call scripts allegedly used to contact potential victims.
Investigators said they discovered signage, backdrops, and other materials resembling police offices in Malaysia, raising suspicions that the group may have been involved in impersonation scams targeting individuals overseas.
Police also found discarded electronic equipment in nearby areas, which investigators believe may have been abandoned in an attempt to destroy evidence.
Further searches conducted the same night led authorities to another hotel and business location on a nearby street, where 21 additional Malaysian nationals were located.
According to preliminary testing results, 18 individuals among those detained tested positive for illegal drugs.
Authorities are now interviewing those involved and working to determine each person’s role within the suspected operation. Investigators are particularly focused on identifying any organizers or ringleaders who may have coordinated activities across multiple locations.
While the investigation remains ongoing, the case highlights growing concerns across Southeast Asia over transnational cybercrime networks, many of which use temporary accommodation, online communication infrastructure, and international recruitment to conduct fraudulent activities across borders.
Ho Chi Minh City police said the operation forms part of a broader 45 day nationwide campaign aimed at cracking down on organized crime, drug offenses, and other serious criminal activities.
Authorities have not yet announced whether formal charges will be filed, and further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
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