Hue Police's Cyber Security and High-Tech Crime Prevention Department uncovered a clandestine weapons manufacturing facility in Lam Dong, following the discovery of a suspect using a pellet gun. The investigation began after Pham Thanh Binh was found to be using such a weapon, which led authorities to the "workshop" in Lam Dong, where Phan Van Quang was allegedly producing and supplying these weapons.

At Binh's secluded residence, nestled within a dense rubber forest, police seized a significant cache of weapon-making equipment and materials. Items recovered included: gun barrel lathes, barrel rifling polishing machines, drills, 30 metal bars for manufacturing gun barrels, 10 gun valves, and approximately 5 kg of lead pellets, equivalent to 15,000 rounds, along with various other related exhibits.

Phan Van Quang and the group involved in illegal military weapons trading at the investigative agency. Photo: Phan Be.

In connection with this case, authorities have arrested and prosecuted Binh, Quang, and 8 other individuals. They face charges related to the illegal production, trading, storage, and use of military weapons. Seizures included 10 pellet guns, nearly 20,000 rounds of ammunition, and various machinery and components used for weapon manufacturing.

Under Article 304 of the 2015 Criminal Code (amended and supplemented in 2017), severe penalties await those involved in illegal weapon activities. This article addresses the illegal manufacturing, storage, transport, use, trading, or appropriation of military weapons and technical military equipment. Violators may face imprisonment from 1 to 7 years. Higher penalties are imposed for organized crimes, large quantities, or acts causing serious consequences.

Vo Thanh