On 19/4, Quang Tri Provincial Police announced they are gathering documents and evidence to clarify signs of fraud and property appropriation, as well as practicing superstition, through the illegal activities of the "Hoi Thanh Duc Chua Troi Me". This group, led by Nguyen Duy Cuong, a native of Phat Tich commune, Bac Ninh province, directly managed operations involving approximately 50 members.

The "Hoi Thanh Duc Chua Troi Me", originating from South Korea, appeared in Vietnam around 2001. The organization operates systematically, with external guidance, often masquerading as: business, charity, or humanitarian aid to approach and recruit participants, especially students or vulnerable individuals.

According to Quang Tri Provincial Police, this group uses rhetoric such as "the end of days" and "soul salvation", combined with initial support to build trust, then gradually dominates their thoughts. Once involved, "followers" are psychologically manipulated and isolated from family and society. They are compelled to regularly attend group meetings (called "Sion"), perform rituals, and contribute about 10% of their income, with promises of "blessings" or threats of "punishment" if they fail to comply.

Nguyen Duy Cuong. Photo: Quang Tri Provincial Police

Recently, through intelligence gathering and public reports, the Domestic Security Division of Quang Tri Provincial Police discovered a group operating "Hoi Thanh Duc Chua Troi Me" in Dong Hoi ward. These individuals frequently changed locations to evade authorities. They did not register temporary residency, chose discreet locations, and had lookouts. During meetings, "followers" had to turn off their phones, hand them over to the manager, limit travel, and adhere to "secrecy" rules.

This organization is hierarchical, with Nguyen Duy Cuong serving as a "deacon" (symbol CS). Below Cuong are regional managers (symbol Q) and family group managers (symbol K), with participating followers at the lowest level.

The group targets vulnerable individuals, those experiencing psychological or health problems, to approach them. They then use promotional materials and videos to entice them to join.

In early April, Cuong organized a "Passover ceremony" to recruit members at several locations in Quang Tri, with 5-6 people at each spot. The Domestic Security Division, in coordination with Dong Hoi, Dong Thuan, Dong Son wards and Quang Ninh commune, uncovered 8 illegal meeting points.

Police interrogated leader Nguyen Duy Cuong, 7 active supporters, and 41 related individuals. Seized evidence includes: 8 laptops, 31 mobile phones, one tablet, 7 scriptures, 33 types of lecture materials related to the "Passover ceremony", offering money, and other documents.

Those involved admitted that organizing and participating in "Hoi Thanh Duc Chua Troi Me" activities violated the law. Seized documents indicate the group showed signs of exploiting belief and religion for profit and propagating superstitious elements.

Many exhibits and documents related to the activities of the "Hoi Thanh Duc Chua Troi Me" group were seized. Photo: Quang Tri Provincial Police

Quang Tri Provincial Police advise residents not to trust or join groups showing signs of superstition or profiteering. They also urge people to promptly inform authorities when suspicious activities are detected.

Dac Thanh