On 13/6, the Regional People's Procuracy 3 of Dong Thap province announced the temporary detention of Phan Minh Tai, a resident of Long Hung commune, on charges of illegal detention.

Phan Minh Tai listens as the investigative agency reads the decision to prosecute and arrest him. Photo: Nam An

The investigation revealed that on the morning of 28/5, a female judge and a clerk from the Regional People's Court 3, accompanied by a bank representative and Long Hung commune authorities, visited the home of Tai's 74-year-old mother. Their purpose was to examine and appraise assets linked to a civil case.

Although Tai was not directly involved in the civil case, he allegedly displayed aggressive behavior during the delegation's visit.

As the delegation prepared to depart, Tai reportedly grabbed a long knife. He then chased the female judge and clerk, forcing them back into the house's yard before locking the gate, preventing their exit.

According to investigators, during the illegal detention, Tai repeatedly verbally abused the female judge, hitting her on the head and threatening her with the knife. He also slashed the knife at a stone bench, declaring he would attack if the victims attempted to leave.

Fearing for their lives, the female judge and clerk repeatedly pleaded for release, too intimidated to resist.

Security camera footage shows Tai locking up, assaulting, and threatening two female officials. Video: Security camera

Nearby residents subsequently alerted the police. Tai only opened the gate and released the two victims after communal police arrived at the scene.

Tai's actions were captured by security cameras at the scene.

The investigative agency continues to investigate the case.

Nam An