Vietnam Conducts Trial Over Massive $107M Illegal Gambling Scandal
Overview of the Gambling Scandal
The Hanoi People’s Court has launched a major trial involving one of Vietnam’s largest illegal gambling operations in recent years. This highly publicized case involves 141 defendants accused of orchestrating a vast underground gambling network estimated to be worth nearly VND 2.6 trillion (around $98 million). The gambling ring was centered at the King Club located within Hanoi’s Pullman Hotel.
Key Individuals and Trial Details
Among the notable accused are Ho Dai Dung, the former vice chairman of the Phu Tho Provincial People’s Committee, and Ngo Ngoc Duc, the former party secretary of Hoa Binh City. The trial, presided over by Judge Luu Ngoc Canh, is expected to span approximately two weeks. Sentences for comparable illegal gambling offenses can exceed ten years of imprisonment.
Investigation and Origins of the Case
The investigation began in early 2024 when the Ministry of Public Security raided the King Club, detaining 14 people for gambling and organizing illicit games. Authorities seized nearly 13 billion dong (about $495,000) along with various foreign currencies. Initially perceived as a small-scale illegal gambling group, the inquiry soon uncovered a complex network involving former government officials, business leaders, and celebrities nationwide.
Exploitation of Licensing and Operation Details
The King Club was officially licensed to operate as a gambling venue exclusively for foreigners. However, management had been subcontracted to HS Development Vietnam Company, led by South Korean national Kim In Sung. Investigations suggest that Kim and his associates exploited gaps in Vietnam’s licensing regulations to facilitate gambling by Vietnamese citizens, effectively turning the venue into a high-stakes casino catering to affluent locals.
High Stakes and Large Bets by Patrons
The indictment reveals extravagant gambling habits among defendants. Ho Dai Dung, nicknamed “Mr. Michael,” reportedly participated 95 times between February and June 2024, losing over $7 million. His bets typically ranged from $4,900 up to $331,000, with a single loss exceeding $759,000. Ngo Ngoc Duc, also known as “Mr. Lucky One,” wagered a total of approximately $4.2 million over 74 visits, losing around $284,000.
Financial Gains of the Organizers and Court Proceedings
Prosecutors accuse Kim In Sung of orchestrating the entire illegal operation and earning about $9.2 million from these activities. Only five of the 141 charges are related to organizing the gambling ring, with three organizers being South Korean nationals. The court will meticulously analyze the evidence in the coming weeks to establish responsibilities and issue sentences accordingly.
Vietnam’s Gambling Regulations and Government Response
Vietnam enforces some of the strictest gambling laws in Asia, yet the government has started to cautiously ease restrictions. Pilot programs now permit some affluent locals to gamble in select casinos, but under strict conditions. However, this substantial illegal gambling case underlines the government’s firm stance against unlawful gambling activities.
