Packs of methamphetamine are seized by police in Dong Nai
Province, February 5, 2021. Photo by VnExpress/Thai Ha. 

Police in Dong Nai arrested seven drug smugglers and seized 20 kilograms of methamphetamine in what is said to be the largest-ever bust in the province. 

At 1 a.m. Friday, police officers found a 26-year-old man carrying two backpacks and acting suspiciously. When officers stopped him and checked his luggage, they found 20 packs of methamphetamine weighing 20 kilograms hidden inside.

Based on the man's testimony, Dong Nai police joined forces with officers under the Ministry of Public Security to detain six other suspects. The identities of the detained have not been disclosed.

Police said the ring specializes in transporting drugs from central provinces to the southern region for consumption.

Police are expanding their investigation.

Vietnam is a key trafficking hub for narcotics despite having some of the world’s toughest drug laws.

Those convicted of possessing or smuggling more than 600 grams of heroin or more than 2.5 kilograms of meth face the death penalty.

The production or sale of 100 grams of heroin or 300 grams of other illegal narcotics is also punishable by death.