On 22/5, the Criminal Police Department of Hung Yen Provincial Police announced the indictment of 29 defendants across various provinces and cities nationwide for gambling. Many of these defendants were not professional criminals, were first-time offenders, and held stable jobs with steady incomes.
According to police, the ring operated via a sophisticated sports betting website named "OK9". To attract players ahead of the 2026 World Cup, suspects ran extensive advertisements on social media platforms and established private groups on Telegram.
Within these groups, they posted numerous articles detailing deposit and withdrawal methods, guaranteed absolute information security, and offered many promotions to gamblers.
To participate, players accessed provided links, created accounts, and linked them to personal bank accounts. The system offered odds for football, basketball, tennis, e-football, and other matches worldwide, alongside online casinos.
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The indicted gamblers. Photo: Provincial Police |
The indicted gamblers. Photo: Provincial Police
Authorities assess that online gambling is no longer confined to criminal elements but has infiltrated various social strata. Many initially join out of curiosity or coercion, but quickly become ensnared in the gambling spiral, leading to severe consequences for their families.
The 2026 World Cup will take place from 11/6 to 19/7. Anticipating a complex situation regarding football betting, Hung Yen Provincial Police advise citizens to heighten vigilance and educate relatives to avoid online gambling solicitations.
Le Tan
