Vietnamese authorities have dismantled a cross-border payment network in Laos that allegedly processed more than VND4 trillion (US$151.9 million) in gambling-related transactions for players in Vietnam.
According to reports, the operation was uncovered following a joint investigation led by Quang Tri Police. The investigation targeted a sophisticated payment infrastructure suspected of facilitating financial transactions between illegal online gambling operators and Vietnamese bettors.
Cross-Border Investigation Leads to Major Bust
Between May 4 and May 13, a task force from Quang Tri Police traveled to Laos to gather evidence. Additionally, they coordinated enforcement efforts with local authorities.
Investigations focused on two locations in Kaysone Phomvihane City, Savannakhet Province. Authorities identified 56 Vietnamese nationals and one Chinese national allegedly connected to the operation.
The coordinated enforcement action culminated in the transfer of suspects and evidence back to Vietnam for further investigation.
Gambling Payment Hub Allegedly Operated Under Business Front
According to investigators, the network was established after Chinese operators allegedly relocated their activities to Laos in February 2026. This move followed intensified enforcement actions against cybercrime and illegal gambling operations in Cambodia.
Authorities claim the group operated through ASM Company, which was presented as a legitimate financial services provider. However, the company allegedly functioned as a payment intermediary for online gambling transactions.
The company reportedly facilitated money transfers between gambling platforms and bettors. It also earned commissions ranging from 0.3% to 0.8% of daily transaction volumes.
Police estimate the network processed approximately VND40 billion (US$1.52 million) in gambling transactions each day since becoming operational earlier this year.
Cryptocurrency Used to Move Funds
Investigators said the operation relied on a structured workflow involving Vietnamese workers recruited to Laos. These workers were assigned to specialized departments within a tightly controlled working environment.
A dedicated customer service team reportedly operated around the clock. This team used Telegram and proprietary ASM PAY software to manage gambling-related transactions.
Authorities allege that funds processed through the network were subsequently routed through the MIA exchange platform. The funds were converted into UST cryptocurrency and transferred through multiple layers before ultimately reaching recipients in China.
The use of cryptocurrency and cross-border payment channels is believed to have played a key role in concealing transaction flows. Moreover, these methods facilitated large-scale movement of funds.
Suspects and Equipment Seized
On May 13, Vietnamese and Lao authorities jointly transferred 56 Vietnamese suspects and 140 electronic devices to Vietnam as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities also confirmed the arrest of two individuals believed to be among the network’s key organizers after they reportedly spent four days evading law enforcement.
The seized devices are expected to provide investigators with additional evidence regarding the structure, scale, and financial activity of the operation.
Crackdown on Cross-Border Gambling Networks
The case highlights the increasingly international nature of illegal online gambling and the growing use of neighboring jurisdictions to support betting-related financial operations.
Authorities believe the network emerged as criminal groups sought alternative locations following enforcement actions in other regional markets, particularly Cambodia.
The investigation remains ongoing as Vietnamese authorities continue examining the individuals involved, transaction records, and potential links to broader online gambling and cybercrime networks operating across Southeast Asia.
The latest enforcement action underscores Vietnam’s continued efforts to combat illegal gambling infrastructure and disrupt the payment systems that support cross-border betting operations.
