Police uncover alleged high-tech scam setup involving 85 Chinese nationals in Ho Chi Minh City

The case came to light after police received a tip-off and raided a hotel in Thuan Giao Ward, where officers found the Chinese group staying without proper temporary residence declarations.

Among the group, 17 individuals were identified as having illegally entered Vietnam through unofficial border crossings from China and Cambodia.

Authorities said the raid took place as the group was setting up a large network of more than 400 devices, including computers, mobile phones and tablets, which investigators believe were intended for use in online scam operations.

According to investigators, a married couple among the suspects was identified as the alleged ringleaders.

Both had previously worked in fraud operations in Cambodia and were reportedly sent to Vietnam to establish a new operational base.

The couple, identified as H.G., 37, and Q.M., 28, rented the entire hotel for VND315 million (US$12,000) per month and used the premises to receive and store large quantities of equipment transported from Cambodia, Thanh Nien (Young People) newspaper reported.

Police are expanding the investigation to clarify the role of each suspect and determine the full scale of the operation.

City police have urged accommodation providers and property owners to strictly comply with regulations on temporary residence registration for foreign guests.

Authorities also called on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to the nearest police station.

Police said warning signs include large groups of foreign nationals gathering at a single location or the sudden installation of large amounts of electronic equipment or surveillance devices in apartments or rented properties, which authorities said would be promptly inspected and handled.