Police Dismantle Vietnamese Call Center Gang Linked to Drug Smuggling

According to a report by Matichon Online on August 6, 2026, Thai police have successfully dismantled a Vietnamese criminal network operating a call center scam. The investigation revealed that the group was also involved in drug trafficking, specifically using tamarind paste as a concealment method for crystal methamphetamine (ice).

During the operation, authorities seized 40 gold bars linked to the illicit activities. The situation escalated when associates of the gang attempted to bribe officers directly at the police station to secure the release of their team members, leading to further arrests. The operation was led by high-ranking police officials who tracked the financial trails associated with the criminal enterprise.

For residents and travelers, this incident highlights ongoing efforts by Thai law enforcement to combat transnational organized crime. While the immediate threat from this specific cell has been neutralized, the case underscores the importance of remaining vigilant against sophisticated scams and illegal activities. It remains to be confirmed whether other members of this network are still at large or if the group had established further distribution channels within the country. Authorities continue to investigate the full extent of the gang's operations and their connections to broader regional criminal networks.