Vietnamese authorities are continuing their investigation into a diamond smuggling operation that allegedly moved more than 28,000 diamonds into the country over the past two years. Police estimate the total value of the stones at nearly US $11 million and say the network carried out at least 141 shipments.
The case has attracted widespread attention because several people connected to Vietnam’s jewelry industry have been charged, including former employees of PNJ Laboratory, a subsidiary linked to jewelry company PNJ. Authorities arrested Dang Ngoc Thao, the laboratory’s former director, earlier this month along with dozens of other suspects.
According to investigators, the group purchased diamonds from suppliers in India and arranged for them to be transported through Hong Kong before reaching Vietnam. Police said members of the network relied on encrypted messaging services and maintained a tightly controlled system for sales, deliveries, and payments.
Authorities allege that diamonds entered Vietnam hidden among travelers’ belongings. Shoes, clothing, and luggage were reportedly used to avoid customs inspections at several international airports, including those in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc. Once the shipments arrived, they were distributed through intermediaries before reaching customers.
Investigators say social media played a major role in the operation. Indian employees working in Vietnam allegedly met with jewelry businesses directly to promote products and negotiate transactions. Separate messaging groups were then created to coordinate individual orders. The network is believed to have targeted smaller jewelry retailers and recently established gemstone companies by offering diamonds at prices well below local market rates.
Police have so far seized more than 1,200 diamonds, along with jewelry lacking documents showing where the items came from. Raids were conducted at over 20 locations, including jewelry stores and private homes, primarily in Ho Chi Minh City. Several businesses connected to the investigation later closed temporarily, according to state media reports.
The investigation has expanded to include several jewelry business owners. Among them is Hoang Thi Thanh Nga, who is known in Vietnam for creating crowns used in beauty competitions. Another person charged in the case is Tran Tien Nhu Nghi, an employee at PNJ Laboratory.
PNJ has stated that the allegations involve individuals rather than the company itself. Company representatives told investors that the diamonds under investigation were never part of PNJ’s retail operations and said all of its imported diamonds are accompanied by legal documentation.
The case remains under investigation by authorities in Thanh Hoa Province and Ho Chi Minh City. Police say additional evidence gathered during the inquiry could lead to further charges as they continue examining the activities of the smuggling network.
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