News
Trying to Keep the Golden Triangle's Drug Violence in the Past
The Golden Triangle, where Burma, Laos and Thailand meet on the Mekong River, has long been known for its history of opium smuggling and lawlessness. The region is now a magnet for tourists, but an attack last year on two Chinese boats loaded with millions of dollars of methamphetamines has raised concerns of a resurgence of drug violence. VOA's Daniel Schearf took these photographs while reporting from the region April 21-23, 2012.
1
The Golden Triangle, where 3 Mekong countries meet, points to China. (VOA - D. Schearf)
2
Early morning in the Golden Triangle. (VOA - D. Schearf)
3
A boat on the Mekong River passing the Chinese-run Kings Roman Casino in the Golden Triangle. (VOA - D. Schearf)
4
A gold Buddha statue on the Thai side of the Golden Triangle. (VOA - D. Schearf)