Pham Quang Vinh, 36, received an 18-year prison sentence, while Nguyen Chi Cong, 33, received 12 years for the murder of Tran Minh Thu. The Tay Ninh Provincial People's Court also ordered the pair to pay 180 million VND in compensation to the victim's family on 15/9.

The court emphasized the severity of the crime, stating that the defendants' reckless behavior and disregard for the law led to the tragic loss of life over a minor dispute. Such actions demand strict penalties to deter similar incidents and uphold justice.

Vinh and Cong were also initially charged with intentional injury, but the charges were dropped after the victim in that incident withdrew their complaint.

The two defendants in court. Photo: Nam An

The two defendants in court. Photo: Nam An

The incident occurred late at night on 30/4 of last year at a karaoke bar in Can Giuoc commune, Long Hau district, formerly part of the old Long An province. Vinh and Cong were with a group that included the victim, Tran Minh Thu. A disagreement arose during the billing process, escalating into a physical altercation.

After being attacked with a helmet and bricks, Vinh went behind the karaoke bar to find Cong. They both armed themselves with knives and confronted Thu's group. Cong chased and injured two people before discarding his weapon. Vinh stabbed Thu in the chest. Both then fled the scene on their motorbikes.

Thu was taken to the hospital but died two days later. Vinh and Cong subsequently turned themselves in to the authorities.

Nam An