Ho Chi Minh City Police announced on 3/8 the emergency arrest of Dang Truong Tho (23), Ha Chanh Phuoc (19), Nguyen Hoang Trong Nhan (17), and Nguyen Truong Tho (17) on charges of disturbing public order.

Investigators are currently examining the seized weapons, verifying their origin, and determining the roles of other individuals involved in the incident.

Four individuals were arrested in an emergency investigation into a gun and knife brawl following an online dispute. Photo: Police provided.

The investigation revealed that on the afternoon of 30/7, a social media dispute prompted two groups of teenagers to arrange a meeting at an empty lot in Ap 14 to settle their conflict.

A 15-year-old teenager was identified as the instigator, recruiting several participants. Before the confrontation, the group gathered at Tho's house to collect weapons. Tho was armed with a loaded revolver-style handgun, along with several switchblades and homemade knives. Other members transported individuals and these weapons to the meeting point using three motorbikes.

On the opposing side, a 17-year-old also recruited additional individuals, preparing homemade knives and a three-section staff.

Upon meeting, both sides attacked each other with bricks, stones, and various weapons. Tho fired multiple shots, with one bullet striking an opponent's left leg. The victim was rushed to the emergency room.

After receiving reports, the Criminal Police Department, in coordination with local police, investigated and summoned those involved. Initially, police identified 11 participants, all of whom admitted their involvement.

Further investigation revealed that after the incident, Tho took three handguns and ammunition to an acquaintance's rented room for concealment. Searches of the suspects' residences resulted in the seizure of three revolvers, 10 rounds of ammunition, one homemade knife, three switchblades, a Miao knife, and other related exhibits.

Pham Hai