Vietnam police dismantle inter‑province football betting ring linked to World Cup 2026

On 25 June 2024, the Crime Investigation Police of Đắk Lắk province announced the successful disruption of a cross‑province football betting network operating during the 2026 World Cup. The operation, carried out on 20 June, resulted in the arrest of nine suspects at locations in Ea Kar and Ea Knốp (Đắk Lắk) and the Tây Nha Tràng ward of Khánh Hòa.

Police identified the ring’s leaders as Phạm Văn Sinh, 38, a resident of Ea Knốp, and Lê Đình Luân, 37, residing in Tây Nha Tràng. Investigators say the group processed more than 10 billion VND in betting transactions, using multiple bank accounts, unregistered SIM cards, encrypted messaging apps with self‑deleting features, and a rented apartment in Tây Nha Tràng to coordinate activities. Evidence, including documents and other items, was seized at the raids. The case remains under investigation and is being expanded to pursue additional participants.