Can Tho City Police announced on 10/3 that they are mobilizing forces to clarify incidents believed to be staged snatch-and-grab robberies at the Lien Hoa Bao Thap tourist area. This site is located in An Ninh ward, approximately 50 km south of the city center.
"Currently, officers have arrested one person involved in the incident on 9/3 and are pursuing the remaining individuals," an investigating officer stated.
Over the past two days, social media has widely circulated videos recording groups of people staging chaotic crowds to snatch valuables at this tourist area.
A prominent video shows around 8-10 men and women approaching a woman standing in an open courtyard within the premises. The group quickly surrounded her, creating a chaotic jostling scene. As the victim struggled to escape the crowd, a woman standing behind her suddenly reached out and snatched the necklace from her neck.
The victim immediately turned around, grabbing the hand of the person behind her but found no valuables. This individual feigned innocence, causing the victim to release her grip. After only about 20 seconds, the entire group dispersed in various directions.
Another video, also reportedly filmed within the tourist area, shows a group of people staging a jostling scene around a young man wearing a baseball cap. Taking advantage of the chaos, an elderly, grey-haired man in a white shirt approached from behind and snatched the victim's necklace. However, the young man quickly turned and held onto the man's hand. Tourist area security then arrived, subdued him, and took him to an office.
The Lien Hoa Bao Thap complex was built on an area of over 4 hectares and inaugurated at the end of January. The lotus-shaped stupa is the project's highlight, standing approximately 68 m tall, with a diameter of 99 m, and comprising three floors. Inside, a 19-ton, 6,8 m tall Medicine Buddha statue is housed.
Since its opening, the site has attracted many locals and tourists. Some visitors have reported incidents of pickpocketing and necklace snatching in the area.
An Ninh Commune Police stated they are coordinating with the tourist area management to disseminate information and broadcast warnings about snatch-and-grab robberies in crowded areas, aiming to raise awareness among residents and tourists.
An Binh
