The Thong Nhat Ward People's Committee reported today that the incident occurred in the early afternoon of 21/5. As the technology teacher prepared to begin the lesson, the student retrieved an axe, which had been hidden and wrapped in his backpack, and struck the head of a classmate sitting at the desk in front.

The victim suffered a brain hematoma and was transferred to Cho Ray Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, for ongoing treatment. Ward police are currently collecting statements from teachers and students involved to clarify the incident's cause and ensure appropriate action.

This incident adds to a series of school violence cases recently, highlighting a concerning trend in educational environments.

In a separate but related incident yesterday, an 8th-grade student in Lam Dong was prosecuted for extortion. This student was identified as the leader of a group of 13 students who repeatedly beat a male classmate within the classroom and school grounds. They threatened and forced the victim to pay "protection money" ranging from 20,000 to 50,000 dong daily for snacks. The victim was later found by relatives attempting suicide at home, in critical condition, and requiring a ventilator.

According to the Ministry of Education and Training regulations, the highest disciplinary action for violating secondary and high school students within the school system is a self-criticism report. However, in serious cases, depending on the student's age, legal prosecution may follow.

Tran Hoa