In a shocking case of fraud, Thai Mong Cam, a 36-year-old woman from the Binh Thuy district of Can Tho, has been arrested for deceiving 349 individuals into believing they would be working in South Korea. The Criminal Police Department of Can Tho City announced on April 30, 2025, that Cam had appropriated more than 5 billion VND (approximately $210,000) from her victims.
Authorities revealed that between August 2023 and April 2024, Cam provided false information regarding the conditions for Vietnamese citizens to gain employment in South Korea under the E82 visa program. This visa is typically designated for short-term labor in various sectors, including agriculture.
According to the police report, Cam misled her victims by promising them job opportunities and collecting their application fees without ever intending to fulfill her promises. The initial investigation has confirmed that she did not carry out any procedures to send these individuals abroad, instead using the funds for personal purposes.
The police have urged anyone who believes they were a victim of Cam’s scheme to come forward and provide information to assist in the investigation. They specifically requested that victims contact Investigator Le Tan Thanh at the Can Tho City Police, emphasizing the importance of reporting such fraudulent activities.
Authorities are continuing to expand the case, as the number of victims and the total amount of money involved may increase. They have also issued a warning to individuals seeking employment abroad to thoroughly research opportunities and to only work through legitimate channels to avoid falling prey to similar scams.
This case highlights a growing concern regarding fraudulent schemes targeting those desperate for employment opportunities. Many victims reported that after paying the required fees, they waited for months without any communication regarding their employment status, leading them to suspect they had been scammed.
As the investigation unfolds, the Can Tho City Police are working diligently to ensure that justice is served and that victims receive the support they need. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to employment offers, especially those promising overseas opportunities.
The police's proactive approach in handling this case reflects their commitment to combating fraud and protecting vulnerable individuals seeking better livelihoods. As the global job market becomes increasingly competitive, the need for awareness and caution in pursuing overseas employment has never been more critical.
In light of this incident, local authorities are also looking into the broader implications of such scams, particularly how they can better educate the public on recognizing fraudulent job offers. Workshops and informational sessions may be organized in the future to equip potential job seekers with the tools they need to identify legitimate opportunities.
Thai Mong Cam's arrest serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with seeking employment abroad, particularly in sectors where demand is high but regulation may be lacking. As the investigation continues, further details about her operations and the extent of her fraud may emerge, shedding light on the mechanisms behind such deceptive practices.
As the story develops, the Can Tho community remains hopeful that justice will prevail for the victims of this elaborate scam. The authorities' call for victims to step forward is a crucial step in ensuring accountability and preventing future incidents of fraud.
