Tran Nhat Anh, 38, a resident of TP HCM, has been indicted and detained by the Security Investigation Agency of Lang Son Provincial Police. He faces charges of illegal transport of radioactive material, as outlined in Article 309 of the Penal Code.

Police identified Nhat Anh as an employee and assistant who actively supported Tran Van Quan in the illegal transport of radioactive material.

This development follows the earlier indictment of Tran Van Quan, 69, chairman and director general of Duong Lam Joint Stock Company, for the same offense. Quan was apprehended while attempting to export 84 tons of Monazite ore, confirmed as radioactive material, to other countries.

Police interrogate suspect Tran Nhat Anh. *Photo: Police provided*

According to police, the seized Monazite ore contains a high percentage of rare earth oxides. These components are valuable for manufacturing electronic devices, high-tech products, and for use in nuclear technology.

Monazite, a reddish-brown or yellowish-brown mineral, is a primary natural ore for extracting rare earth elements such as cerium, lanthanum, and neodymium. In Vietnam, it is commonly found as coastal placers in the central region.

This marks the first instance where police have seized such a significant quantity of radioactive raw material. The case underscores persistent loopholes and shortcomings in state management, despite increased efforts to regulate the exploitation, trade, and transport of resources and rare minerals.