30 arrested in Ho Chi Minh City nitrous oxide ring

Tran Tuan Kiet, 30, allegedly led a network supplying nitrous oxide to restaurants and bars, netting over 105 billion VND.

Police in Ho Chi Minh City arrested Kiet and 30 others on 12/7 for "trading in prohibited goods." The arrests followed inspections of restaurants and bars under a crackdown on drug-related crimes ordered by Ho Chi Minh City Police Chief, Lieutenant General Mai Hoang.

Suspects in the group led by Tran Tuan Kiet. Photo: Police provided

Suspects in the group led by Tran Tuan Kiet. Photo: Police provided

Hundreds of patrons were found using nitrous oxide at several establishments: Public Luxury bar on Pham Thai Buong Street, Tan Hung Ward; Master SG on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Ben Thanh Ward; Snug Pub and Wlounge on Ton That Thiep Street, Saigon Ward; and CoCo Lounge on Hoang Van Thu Street in Thu Dau Mot City. A substantial number of nitrous oxide tanks were also seized from storage locations.

The investigation revealed Kiet as the head of the supply chain, operating from three locations in Phu Thuan Ward, Hung Long Ward, and Nha Be District where nitrous oxide was stored and decanted.

Police seize tons of nitrous oxide. Video: Police provided

Police seize tons of nitrous oxide. Video: Police provided

Searches uncovered a 22-ton N2O tank, over 1,400 nitrous oxide canisters, nearly 100 kg of balloons, decanting equipment, and other related evidence.

Nitrous oxide, used in "laughing gas," is classified as a narcotic with significant health risks, and its production, sale, and use are prohibited. Despite this, Kiet's group and several restaurant and bar owners knowingly traded the substance for profit.

Since the beginning of the year, Kiet’s group has supplied thousands of canisters, generating 253 billion VND in sales and over 105 billion VND in illicit profits.

The investigation is ongoing.