In a major development in Vietnam's ongoing battle against drug trafficking, the Ho Chi Minh City People's Procuracy has proposed the death penalty for nine individuals involved in the VN10 drug case. This case has garnered attention due to its extensive network and the significant quantities of drugs involved.

At the center of this case is Hà Danh Nậm, a 52-year-old from Nghệ An, who has been identified as a key figure in the operation. The prosecution alleges that Nậm played a crucial role in orchestrating the transport of drugs from France to Vietnam, utilizing various methods to evade detection.

The investigation revealed that Nậm hired Hoàng Sỹ Thắng, 39, also from Nghệ An, to receive packages containing illicit substances. These drugs were cleverly concealed within everyday items, such as toothpaste tubes. By early March 2023, Nậm had successfully coordinated seven shipments using this method. In addition to hand-carrying the drugs, Nậm is accused of using international express mail services to bring narcotics into Vietnam, with packages sent to various locations across the country.

The prosecution's case indicates that Thắng directly received the drug-laden packages, distributed them, and directed Bùi Văn Ánh, his nephew, to deliver them to various distribution points. Based on their roles in this extensive drug trafficking operation, the procuracy has recommended the death penalty for Nậm and eight others on charges of illegal drug trafficking, along with a fine of 50 million VND for each defendant.

Thắng is facing a life sentence and a similar fine, while Ánh could receive a 20-year prison term along with a 30 million VND fine. Other defendants are facing sentences ranging from 18 months to life imprisonment.

The VN10 case is considered particularly severe, involving a sophisticated network that transported drugs from Europe and Cambodia to Vietnam, subsequently distributing them to local markets. The prosecution highlighted the large quantities and various types of drugs involved, as well as the use of encrypted messaging apps and unregistered bank accounts to facilitate the operation.

The case underscores the increasing complexity and organization of drug trafficking in Vietnam, prompting authorities to take stringent measures against such operations. The public trial of the VN10 case aligns with the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee's Resolution 02, aimed at achieving a drug-free city by 2030.

The trial is being conducted both in-person and online, with defendants currently held at the Chí Hòa detention center. The case was initially uncovered on March 16, 2023, when customs officials at Tan Son Nhat Airport detected suspicious activity involving four flight attendants, leading to the discovery of over 8 kg of ecstasy, more than 3 kg of ketamine, and cocaine in their luggage.

As the trial unfolds, the prosecution maintains that the charges against the defendants are justified, emphasizing that the legal proceedings are aimed at ensuring justice and addressing the growing drug crisis in the region.