Hanoi police arrested 23-year-old Nguyen Long Vu, from Bac Ninh province, on 20/9. He is being investigated for disturbing public order after assaulting a cafe employee.

Vu's 27-year-old companion, referred to as the "boss," was released pending further investigation.

Nguyen Long Vu at the police station. Photo: Police Department

Nguyen Long Vu at the police station. Photo: Police Department

The incident occurred on the afternoon of 17/9 at a cafe in Times City, Vinh Tuy ward. The cafe has a prominent "no smoking" policy.

Despite this, Vu's companion, dressed in a suit and tie, lit a cigarette. Cafe staff reminded him of the policy twice.

After a third reminder, the "boss" gestured upwards with his finger. Vu immediately put his shoes back on, walked to the counter, and punched the 28-year-old employee twice in the face.

The victim, the cafe owner's son, fell to the floor. The "boss" again gestured upwards, shouting "stop, stop, stop." Vu returned to his seat, and the group left. The entire incident was captured on security cameras and later shared online.

The victim has worked at the cafe for over a year.

The man gesturing. Photo: Video still

The man gesturing. Photo: Video still

Both men denied that the gesture was an instruction to assault the employee. They claim the "boss" told Vu to see who had offended him after being asked not to smoke. When he heard the commotion, he raised his hand to tell Vu to stop. He claims the gesture was intended to break up the fight.

Police took statements from both men. Vu remains in custody, while the other man was released pending further investigation.

Pham Du