On 30/6, Nghe An Provincial Police announced the extradition of Thong, a resident of Muong Xen commune, from Laos. He is being brought back to the locality to resume investigation into illegal drug trafficking.

Suspect Thong at the investigative agency. *Photo: Police handout*

According to police records, Thong led a small-scale drug trafficking and distribution ring in the former Ky Son district. On 12/3/1997, he was caught transporting a backpack containing 6,2 kg of opium for sale. Thong exploited the rugged terrain to escape and has been subject to a special wanted notice issued by Nghe An Provincial Police since 4/1997.

The suspect fled to Laos, continuously changing his residence. For several years, he lived in hiding deep within forests, operating near border regions. Later, Thong changed his name, acquired Laotian citizenship, married a local woman, and settled in a Hmong community in Muong Pec district, Xieng Khouang province, to hide his true identity.

Recently, during a review of wanted fugitives, the Drug Crime Investigation Department of Nghe An Provincial Police uncovered a lead about a suspicious man residing in Xieng Khouang province. After verification, investigators confirmed the man was Thong and coordinated with local authorities to apprehend him.

Duc Hung