Son La Province police officials said the suspects are arrested as they attempt to cross the Lao border into Vietnam in the possession of 20,000 ecstasy pills. 

Those arrested are Giang A Dong, 26, Song A Lau, 34, Ly A Pao, 45, Ly Sau Chai, 44, and Phang A Giang, 26. They face possible charges of conspiracy, drug trafficking and money laundering.

Son La Province straddles a major route for drug smuggling networks hauling drugs into Vietnam and cash earnings back to Laos.

These operations breed violence in Vietnam, and law enforcement will continue to work vigorously to bring these drug trafficking organizations to justice, said police officials.

Two firearms along with ammunition are also seized.