On March 6, 2025, police in Lao Cai province raided two illegal gambling clubs, arresting 97 people, including 69 Chinese nationals. The Bridge Sports Club and Poker Khai Hoang, located on the second floor of the Royal Lao Cai Hotel, were found to be operating under the management of two Chinese men, who later partnered with a Vietnamese national. The operation was uncovered following an extensive period of surveillance.

During the raid, police seized evidence worth approximately 720 billion Vietnamese dong, including Chinese currency notes and gaming chips. In addition, authorities confiscated 50 decks of playing cards, 30 computers, 12 monitors, 90 mobile phones, and other materials related to the gambling activities. The clubs facilitated gambling by allowing patrons to exchange Renminbi, with each chip valued at one Renminbi.

Vietnam’s strict laws prohibit gambling, with the exception of certain licensed casinos open primarily to foreigners. Those caught gambling illegally face up to seven years in prison, while individuals operating such illegal establishments could receive up to 10 years behind bars. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining the seized data to further uncover the scale of the illegal activities.