On 28/5, Tran Nguyen Duc Tho and 149 other individuals were arrested by the Drug Crime Investigation Police Department (PC04) of Ho Chi Minh City Police. They face charges for a range of offenses, including buying, selling, transporting, possessing, and organizing drug use. This major operation is part of the Ho Chi Minh City Police's ongoing 45-day intensive crime crackdown, during which PC04 has already apprehended hundreds of people.

150 people arrested in the drug operation. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Police

The investigation began after PC04 Team 5 discovered one individual who tested positive for drugs during an area sweep. Recognizing this indicated a sophisticated supply network, authorities launched a special operation, adopting the motto "following the flow of drugs". Investigators identified several networks, primarily led by Tho's group and six other individuals.

Simultaneous raids were conducted across various locations in the former Ba Ria - Vung Tau province, including Vung Tau, Tam Thang, Phuoc Thang, Rach Dua, Xuyen Moc, Ho Tram, and Long Hai wards, as well as surrounding areas. During the arrests, some ringleaders violently resisted with pepper spray and weapons in an attempt to escape, resulting in injuries to some officers. However, detectives maintained pursuit and successfully subdued them.

Tran Hoang Phuc, a drug supplier, arrested with exhibits. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Police

Further investigation expanded the case, leading to the apprehension of an inter-provincial network operating between Dong Nai and Ho Chi Minh City, led by Vo Van Sang. Expanding the case, police arrested eight more individuals involved in this network.

Vo Van Sang, who resisted police with weapons and pepper spray, was subdued. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Police

Concluding the special operation, police successfully dismantled five main networks and over 20 criminal sub-branches, indicting 150 individuals. Authorities seized a large quantity of drugs, two daggers, one pepper spray canister, and various related tools. PC04 is currently continuing its investigation, expanding leads to thoroughly dismantle any remaining criminal branches.

Quoc Thang