On August 27, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung sent a letter of commendation to the Thanh Hoa Provincial Police and the Ho Chi Minh City Police for their successful operation against a major diamond smuggling ring. This operation is noted as one of the largest of its kind in Vietnam, involving the smuggling of more than 33,400 diamonds.

The Prime Minister emphasized that this achievement reflects the professional capability, intelligence, and determination of the police forces in combating crime. The investigation, which began in 2024, revealed that the smuggling operation was led by Abhishek Deepak Patel, a 32-year-old Indian national who established a company in Hong Kong to facilitate the illegal trade.

In Vietnam, several individuals, including employees from well-known jewelry companies such as PNJ and SJC, were implicated in the smuggling activities. The total value of the diamonds smuggled is estimated at around 2 trillion VND (approximately 85 million USD).

The Thanh Hoa Provincial Police have confirmed that the diamonds involved in the case include both natural and synthetic varieties. As a result of the investigation, a total of 39 individuals have been arrested for their roles in the smuggling operation.

The Prime Minister has called for the Ministry of Public Security to recognize and reward the efforts of the police units involved in this significant case, which has contributed to ensuring a safe and healthy investment environment in Vietnam.