On 16/7, Dai and four others were arrested by the Economic Police Department (PC03, Ho Chi Minh City Police) for investigation into manufacturing and selling counterfeit food additives.

Nguyen Van Dai (far left) and his accomplices. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Police

Nguyen Van Dai (far left) and his accomplices. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Police

The Ho Chi Minh City Police's Economic Police Department (PC03) uncovered an inter-provincial network producing and selling fake food additives, with Nguyen Van Dai identified as the ringleader. Dai was responsible for procuring unregulated raw materials, including MSG, seasoning powder, and detergent. He then commissioned the production of fake packaging and labels of famous brands for repackaging and distribution.

After production, the finished goods were gathered at a warehouse in Vinh Loc commune, then transported and distributed to grocery stores across Ho Chi Minh City and Tay Ninh province. This illicit operation was tightly controlled, with frequent changes in delivery locations to evade police detection.

Fake MSG and seasoning powder discovered by police. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Police

Fake MSG and seasoning powder discovered by police. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Police

Following a long period of surveillance, police simultaneously raided various associated locations. They seized nearly 150 kg of fake MSG, over 52 kg of fake seasoning powder, nearly 548 kg of fake detergent, along with hundreds of kilograms of raw production materials, numerous machines, and counterfeit packaging. Authorities also identified over 12 grocery stores distributing the group's counterfeit goods.

Investigation results showed that Dai's group had purchased over 1.1 tons of MSG raw material and 300 kg of seasoning powder raw material from unknown sources, without quality inspection. According to investigators, if not detected promptly, these counterfeit goods could have affected tens of thousands of meals for residents. During the investigation, some individuals attempted to bribe officers to avoid prosecution, but all were dealt with by the police force.

Fake MSG and seasoning powder packaged under famous brands. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Police

Fake MSG and seasoning powder packaged under famous brands. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Police

Ho Chi Minh City Police are expanding the investigation and advising residents to be cautious when shopping. They urge consumers to only choose products with clear and reputable labels, as the use of fake or unverified products carries the risk of poisoning and the accumulation of harmful substances, seriously affecting long-term health.

Quoc Thang