Vietnam Police Arrest Four in US$24,300 Phu Quoc Tourism Scam
An Giang Province police arrested four individuals connected to a scam that defrauded a tourist of VND637 million (US$24,300) for fake Phu Quoc accommodation.
Tourist Defrauded on Phu Quoc
A tourist, Quyen from An Giang Province, lost VND637 million (US$24,300) in an accommodation scam on Phu Quoc island. Local police reported the fraud on Wednesday, following Quyen's complaint. She sought to book an apartment for late 2025 through a fake Facebook page. This page impersonated "Rosie Hillside Phu Quoc apartment".
Quyen made an initial deposit, then several additional transfers. Scammers claimed prior transactions failed due to "incorrect format", prompting further payments. She transferred over VND637 million before realising the deception.
Cross-Border Scam Operation Uncovered
An Giang Province police investigated the transactions and arrested four suspects. Duong Hoang Van, Truong Thuy Duong, Lam Quoc Kiet, and Le Van Ca, aged 20 to 39, face fraud charges. Their Facebook page had over 7,800 followers, regularly posting vacation apartment content to attract bookings. Investigations link the suspects to an organised scam operation. This group operates from Bavet City, Cambodia, reportedly run by Chinese nationals.
Money Laundering Scheme
One arrested suspect, Hoang Van, was recruited online with promises of "easy work, high pay". He was instructed to open multiple bank accounts. He then travelled to Cambodia to work for the scam organisation. The group used these bank accounts to receive and transfer illicit funds.
Money moved through various accounts, then to cryptocurrency and foreign-exchange trading platforms. This process aimed to obscure the funds' origins. Since December 2025, the suspects' accounts processed approximately VND800 billion. Police investigations continue.
This incident highlights increasing digital fraud risks for Asia's tourism sector. Online booking platforms require enhanced vigilance against impersonation. Scams like this erode consumer trust in legitimate travel businesses. They also raise concerns about cross-border criminal networks leveraging social media and cryptocurrency.
Businesses in tourism and digital payments must strengthen security protocols. This protects customers and preserves the industry's reputation, especially in popular destinations like Phu Quoc.
This article is journalism, not investment advice; consult a licensed professional before making financial decisions. Market data is indicative, may be delayed, and should be verified with your broker or exchange before use.
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