On 23/7, Ho Chi Minh City police announced the arrests and indictments. The charges include drug trafficking, organizing drug use, harboring drug users, and illegal drug possession.

The arrests follow a two-week investigation into suspected drug activity at three bars: F5 Club in Dong Hoa ward; Six T Club in An Phu ward; and TGT Disco Club in Vung Tau ward. Over 1.5 kg of various drugs were seized.

Suspects related to the three bars arrested. Photo: Police Department

Suspects related to the three bars arrested. Photo: Police Department

Investigators determined that F5 Club and Six T Club were operated by a group led by Bui Phan Minh Toan.

To boost profits, the group allegedly permitted outside dealers to sell drugs openly within the establishments, attracting more customers.

Hundreds of police officers raid three bars in Ho Chi Minh City. Video: Police Department

These two bars had an unspoken rule: patrons bringing in outside drugs would be asked to leave. Customers could only purchase drugs from two in-house suppliers, led by Vo Hoang Anh and Nguyen Thanh Men, who sold directly to patrons.

At TGT Disco Club, owner Nguyen Truong Giang reportedly prohibited staff from providing drugs or paraphernalia. However, to retain customers and increase revenue, he allegedly instructed staff not to interfere with patrons using drugs.

Police escort suspects to headquarters. Photo: Police Department

Police escort suspects to headquarters. Photo: Police Department

On 7/7, after the merger of Binh Duong and Ba Ria - Vung Tau provinces with Ho Chi Minh City, hundreds of police officers raided the bars. Authorities reported 186 patrons and staff tested positive for drugs. They also confiscated over 100 grams of synthetic drugs and 57 nitrous oxide canisters.

Based on witness testimony, investigators confirmed drug trafficking and organized drug use at all three locations.

Ho Chi Minh City police stated they will continue to monitor and address establishments suspected of drug-related activities.

Quoc Thang