Previously, this office issued a warning regarding scam gambling incidents, but reports of victimization among Japanese nationals continue to surface. In mid-September, we received multiple reports of such incidents in quick succession. During your stay in the area, please take precautions to avoid falling victim to these schemes, and refrain from accepting invitations from strangers.
Examples of Reported Cases:
- Case 1
While walking in Ho Chi Minh City, a Japanese national was approached in English by a foreign man who expressed his love for Japan. Gradually feeling a sense of familiarity, the individual followed the man to his home. There, they were told about a foolproof strategy for winning at blackjack and participated in the game. However, they lost all their money on the final round. Subsequently, the stakes increased, and the victim was coerced into withdrawing approximately 700,000 yen from a nearby jewelry store. - Case 2
While sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City, a Japanese national was approached by a foreign man who spoke broken Japanese. The man invited the tourist to his home for lunch. Afterward, another man claiming to be a casino dealer arrived and explained a foolproof method for winning at blackjack. A woman, introduced as a jeweler, then appeared, but since the tourist refused to participate in the gambling, no financial loss was incurred.
Preventative Measures:
Gambling in Vietnam is illegal. Even if you consult the public security authorities, you could be treated as a suspect yourself. Scam groups that lure people into gambling are well aware of this and exploit it. Therefore, if approached by a stranger while in Vietnam, do not fall for any enticing offers.
Additionally, if you are approached in friendly Japanese or English and invited for a meal, never go to their home or any private location. Most of these incidents occur in such private settings, where escape is difficult, and there is a risk of danger to your life and safety. Avoid following suspicious individuals under any circumstances.
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