On the afternoon of 29/5, the People's Procuracy Region 2 - Quang Ngai organized a public apology and rectification for Le Van Thuong, Le Phat Dat, Le Tan Vinh, Le Tan Vang, and Le Tan Ho. All are residents of Trung An hamlet, Binh Son commune. Ho was absent as he is currently serving a sentence in another case.

The wrongfully accused receive flowers and apologies from the judicial authorities. *Photo: Pham Linh*

According to a representative from the Procuracy, in March 2013, a robbery of 13.8 million VND occurred at Truong Trau slope, Phu Le 2 hamlet, Binh Son commune. In August of the same year, the former Binh Son District Police initiated criminal proceedings against these individuals for robbery. However, by April 2024, the investigating agency dismissed the case because the investigation period had expired, and they could not prove that the five individuals committed the crime.

The Procuracy determined that the wrongful accusations stemmed from procedural errors made by the judicial officials involved. These errors led to severe damage to the honor, dignity, health, and lives of the accused. The cause was attributed to incomplete evidence collection during the investigation and a lack of objectivity in evaluating testimonies.

Authorities have now re-identified the individuals involved in the robbery that occurred 13 years ago, completing the investigation and prosecution. Furthermore, the investigation agency of the Supreme People's Procuracy has initiated criminal proceedings related to the judicial officials who caused the wrongful accusation.

Le Phat Dat speaks at the apology ceremony. *Photo: Pham Linh*

A representative of the People's Procuracy Region 2 - Quang Ngai acknowledged the errors, extended a public apology to the five wrongfully accused individuals, and stated that lessons would be learned from the incident.

At the apology ceremony, Le Phat Dat, representing the victims, stated that he had been coerced into confessing despite having no involvement in the robbery. He recounted that more than 10 years living as a suspect severely impacted his life and mental well-being, as he constantly endured gossip and slander.

"Justice, though delayed, has finally arrived," Dat stated. "Today's apology helps me live with my head held high as an honest citizen."

Pham Linh