According to investigators, the ring was led by Nguyen Thanh Tung (born 1989, resident of Quang Chinh commune, Thanh Hoa province).

The group’s modus operandi was to exploit social media - especially Facebook - by creating fake fanpages impersonating celebrities and KOLs. They posted advertisements promising “easy online work from home, high profits just by watching videos.”

Their primary targets were women across various provinces. Victims were persuaded to “deposit” money or pay transaction fees as part of the scheme, only to have their funds stolen.

Since 2023, the syndicate has defrauded thousands of people nationwide, with total losses estimated in the thousands of billions of VND.

To cover their tracks, Nguyen Thanh Tung established a front company called Phoenix Company in Cambodia, hiring dozens of Vietnamese nationals to play different roles within the operation.

Given the international dimension and the group’s sophisticated tactics, Thanh Hoa police launched a special investigation. Multiple reconnaissance teams were mobilized, leading to coordinated raids and arrests.

Authorities have so far arrested and charged seven suspects, including ringleader Tung, on charges of fraudulent appropriation of assets and money laundering.

The case is now being expanded to identify accomplices and recover assets.

Le Duong