On 3/1, Nghe An Provincial Police announced they had extradited Xia, residing in Tri Le commune, from Laos back to the locality to resume investigation into illegal drug trading and transportation.

According to investigation records, Xia led a transnational illegal drug trading and transportation ring. In 2004, while transporting a shipment of over 60 kg of drugs from Laos to the former Que Phong district, police raided him, but he used the rugged terrain to escape.

Suspect Xia (right) is escorted by police to headquarters. Photo: Police provided

Xia fled to Laos, changed his name, and cut off contact with relatives. During his 22 years in hiding, Xia occasionally changed residences to evade pursuit by authorities.

Recently, during a review of wanted fugitives, the Nghe An Provincial Police Drug Crime Investigation Department identified a suspicious man living in Hua Phan. After verification, detectives confirmed this person was Xia and coordinated with local authorities to apprehend him.

Duc Hung