On 5/2, Linh, 22, residing in Phuc Son commune, was criminally detained by the Hanoi City Police Criminal Investigation Department for allegedly brokering prostitution.

According to police, Linh, who was the first runner-up in a 2025 beauty pageant, engaged in prostitution due to a lack of stable employment. To boost her income, Linh also took on the role of a pimp, serving as the primary contact for prostitution transactions.

Linh leveraged her social connections to link with individuals seeking prostitution services, negotiating prices and locations. The first runner-up also recruited numerous attractive women, sending their suggestive photos to clients for selection.

Bui Thi Phuong Linh receiving the first runner-up title at the beauty pageant. Photo: FBNV

Upon client agreement, Linh directly negotiated prices and finalized the time and location for the women to arrive. Transactions occurred via phone and messaging applications. Clients were required to transfer payment before receiving sexual services.

Two women involved in prostitution, brokered by Linh, stated that each service cost approximately 4 to 6 million VND. In addition to the initial agreed-upon fee, Linh also collected extra money from clients for her own profit.

On the evening of 13/1, police raided a motel in Viet Hung ward, apprehending several couples engaged in prostitution in different rooms. During this operation, Linh reportedly received approximately 18 million VND from clients. After paying the women, Linh kept the remaining amount as her commission for brokering the services.