Phan Bao Nhat, 33, was apprehended by Lam Dong Provincial Police in the early morning of 4/1 at the Bo Y border gate, formerly Kon Tum, as he attempted to flee to Laos. The arrest, made around 4h30, occurred over 450 km from Nhan Co market, formerly Dak Nong, where he had robbed a gold store over 60 hours prior. Nhat is from Nhan Co commune.

Upon his arrest, a quick search of Nhat's belongings led police to recover all the gold, valued at nearly 500 million dong, which was the evidence of the crime.

Nhat (center) upon his arrest. Photo: Hoai Thanh

The robbery took place three days prior, in the afternoon. The suspect, wearing a gray jacket, a hat, dark glasses, and two face masks, rode a motorbike to Toan Hang gold store in Nhan Co market. He inquired about wedding jewelry, asking the owner to display various items.

The owner presented several pieces for Nhat to inspect and select. As she quoted the price and placed the gold down to attend to another customer, Nhat immediately snatched all the gold and fled. The female owner and a friend from a neighboring house pursued him but were unsuccessful.

Image of the suspect at the gold store. Photo cut from security camera video

Nhat is currently being transported to Lam Dong for further investigation.

By Hoai Thanh and Truong Ha