Laos Hands Over 7 Thai Nationals Linked to Online Gambling Network

Laos Hands Over 7 Thai Nationals Linked to Online Gambling Network

VIENTIANE, Oct. 5, 2026 — Laotian authorities have handed over seven Thai nationals to officials at the Thai Embassy in Laos after the group was arrested in a crackdown on an alleged online gambling and scam operation in Vientiane.

According to Thai media outlet Khaosod, the seven were arrested in early September during a Lao operation targeting online gambling and scam networks operating in the Lao capital.

Thai authorities reportedly found that the suspects had previously worked for an online gambling website in Cambodia. They later moved their operation to Laos, renting a house in Vientiane in August to relaunch the same online gambling website.

The group was subsequently arrested by Lao authorities on allegations of working without legal authorization and involvement in illegal gambling activities.

After the suspects completed legal proceedings in Laos, Lao authorities transferred them back to Thailand through the First Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge. They were handed over to Thai authorities for further legal proceedings and potential prosecution under Thai law.

The transfer reportedly marked the 14th time Lao authorities have deported or returned Thai nationals linked to online gambling offenses to Thailand.