According to provincial police, authorities uncovered the operation after simultaneously inspecting the Thai Duong Hotel and an entertainment complex operated by Thai Duong Company in Hoang Van Thu Commune on April 21.
At the scene, officers caught around 80 foreign and Vietnamese nationals allegedly participating in gambling activities under various forms. Police seized more than VND 11 billion (approximately USD 430,000) in cash from gambling tables, suspects and cashier counters.
The gambling venue at Thai Duong Hotel is raided by police (Photo: Lang Son police).
Investigators also discovered chips stored in safes with a total conversion value exceeding VND 301 billion (approximately USD 11.8 million), allegedly used for gambling transactions.
Initial findings identified the company behind the operation as Thai Duong Entertainment and Tourism Company, headed by Zeng Hua, a 56 year old Macau citizen serving as director and chairman.
The company had been licensed to operate prize winning electronic games for foreign nationals and overseas Vietnamese. Approved games reportedly included slot machines, roulette, electronic baccarat, blackjack, sicbo, racing simulators, mahjong machines and poker.
However, investigators allege that under the guise of a recreational club, Zeng Hua installed card tables, dealing equipment, computers and surveillance systems, while recruiting foreign and Vietnamese staff to organise illegal gambling.
The group allegedly managed gaming tables, dealt cards, calculated scores, collected chips and paid winnings on behalf of the house. Participants were reportedly paid monthly salaries and received tips from gamblers.
So far, police have prosecuted 66 suspects on charges related to organising gambling and gambling activities, including 48 foreign nationals and 18 Vietnamese citizens.
The investigation is continuing.