Football 'Piracy' Ring Busted, Gambling Operations Worth 850 Billion Dong Uncovered

Lao Cai Provincial Police have cracked a sophisticated criminal network involved in illegally streaming football matches and organizing large-scale online gambling, with financial transactions reaching an estimated 850 billion dong (approximately $33 million USD).

The investigation, prompted by directives from the Ministry of Public Security to combat intellectual property theft and illegal gambling during major sporting events like the World Cup, uncovered a group systematically using websites to broadcast international football matches and facilitate betting. The operation culminated on June 26, with coordinated raids across numerous provinces, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and others.

During the crackdown, authorities apprehended 20 individuals and seized 25 mobile phones, 20 computers, and 30 million dong in cash. Additionally, 7.5 billion dong across 28 bank accounts was frozen pending further investigation. The suspects confessed that the ring had been active since June 2025.

Based on the gathered evidence, the Lao Cai Provincial Police have initiated legal proceedings, issuing arrest warrants for nine individuals. They face charges related to copyright infringement, related rights, organizing gambling, and participating in gambling activities. The investigation is ongoing to uncover the full extent of the network and bring all involved parties to justice.