Thai authorities have dismantled a large-scale illegal online gambling operation serving the Vietnamese market, arresting 93 Vietnamese nationals during a raid in Bangkok’s Makkasan area. Officials estimate the network was generating over 100 million baht (£2.3 million) daily, offering both sports betting and online casino games.
Raid Reveals Sophisticated Gambling Operation
The police acted after noticing unusual activity at the property, including high traffic from foreign nationals and restricted access via key-card entry systems. Upon raiding the premises, authorities found operators actively managing Vietnamese-language gambling websites on multiple computers.
Those arrested reportedly received 30,000 baht (£704) per month, paid directly to Vietnamese bank accounts, indicating a well-organized cross-border operation with dedicated staff maintaining 24/7 operations.
Vietnam’s Black Market Drives Demand
Although all online gambling is illegal in Vietnam, the country has one of the largest underground gambling markets in the region, with players reportedly spending $5–10 billion annually.
The Bangkok-based operation highlights how illegal networks exploit high demand by recruiting employees from the target market and providing localized services, even while evading local and international enforcement.
Land-Based Casinos Open Doors to Vietnamese Citizens
While online gambling remains illegal, Vietnam is slowly expanding access for citizens in land-based casinos through pilot programs. Locals can now participate in select resorts, including Grand Ho Tram Resort and the upcoming Van Don integrated resort, under a five-year trial.
The Corona Resort and Casino has already received permanent approval to allow local players, charging VND 2.5 million (£72) for a 24-hour pass and VND 50 million (£1,434) for a 30-day pass.
As these programs expand, Vietnam is positioning its land-based casinos as a regulated alternative to the illicit online market, potentially reshaping the country’s gaming and tourism industry.
