Toothpaste Tubes Hide Drugs in Vietnam's Mega Trafficking Case

A significant drug trafficking network has been dismantled in Vietnam, leading to severe penalties for 227 defendants, including 11 death sentences handed down on Thursday. The investigation, code-named VN10, was initiated in March 2023 after four Vietnam Airlines flight attendants were apprehended at Ho Chi Minh City's airport. They were found carrying over 10 kilograms of ketamine and ecstasy concealed within toothpaste tubes, a discovery made upon their arrival from Paris.

The extensive inquiry grew to encompass hundreds of drug-related cases and more than 2,700 individuals. The alleged mastermind, Ha Danh Nam, 52, remains at large and was convicted and sentenced to death in absentia for his role in orchestrating the trafficking. Authorities stated his actions were deemed particularly serious.

Mr. Nam reportedly sourced ketamine and ecstasy in Europe, using various methods to conceal the drugs, including within coffee, chocolate, shampoo, and French fries packaging. He allegedly employed students, courier services, and flight attendants to transport these packages from Paris to Ho Chi Minh City.

Among those convicted were notable public figures. Singer Chi Dan received seven years for organizing drug use. Spanish model Andrea Aybar Carmona, known as An Tay, was sentenced to eight years for drug possession and organizing drug use. Social media influencer Nguyen Do Truc Phuong received six years on similar charges.

Initially, the four flight attendants were released without charge, with police concluding they were unaware of the illegal contents they transported. This rare outcome highlighted the complexity of the investigation and the alleged deception employed by the network's leaders.