On 21/5, Hung Yen Provincial Police announced that the Criminal Police Department had arrested 23 individuals for investigation into copyright and related rights infringement, organizing gambling, and gambling.
According to investigators, the ring was discovered and dismantled as it prepared to infringe on World Cup 2026 copyrights. Suspects resided across many provinces and cities, with the ringleader located at Empire City Thu Thiem apartment complex, An Khanh Ward, TP HCM.
This action was taken as part of implementing Directive 38 from the Prime Minister, which aims to intensify efforts against intellectual property infringement.
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Cakhia TV advertised in many locations, inviting people to its website to follow matches. Photo: Cakhiatv |
Initial investigations determined the ring had been operating from early 2024 until now, involving many participants nationwide. The group operated under a closed model, primarily online, and paid salaries through anonymous e-wallets.
Suspects admitted copyright infringement primarily targeted football matches involving the Vietnamese national team and many major global tournaments: Champions League, Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, and Ligue 1. The Premier League was the most frequently infringed.
According to police, the group used high technology to illegally broadcast copyrighted content via websites such as CakhiaTV, RakhoiTV, and CaheoTV.
The ring also employed many popular social media "commentators" with nicknames like Giang A Pho, Giang A Lu, Giang A Loi, Giang A Pao, and Giang A Cay.
Investigators stated that in addition to copyright infringement, the group organized online betting for viewers through football matches livestreamed on their system.
During the search, Hung Yen Provincial Police seized 28 powerful desktop computers, 6 tablets, 46 smartphones, and 18 specialized livestreaming equipment sets used for football commentary, along with various high-speed Internet connection devices.
Authorities also froze 27 bank accounts and seized over 10 billion VND in cash and account balances, in addition to several luxury vehicles.
