On the morning of 8/9, Nghia Giang Commune Police, in coordination with other units, arrested Pham Tuan in a eucalyptus plantation in Tra Giang Commune.

Tuan, a long-time drug addict, had returned to the area in April.

Pham Tuan wielding a sword, chasing a motorcyclist on Provincial Road 623B. *Image taken from video*

Yesterday afternoon, Tuan, shirtless and wielding a meter-long sword, emerged from his home onto Provincial Road 623B in the former Nghia Thuan Commune (now Tra Giang Commune). He yelled and swung the sword, chasing passersby and causing widespread panic.

Local residents who attempted to intervene with sticks were also threatened.

Pham Tuan (left) at the time of his arrest this morning, 8/9. *Photo: Nghia Giang Commune Police*

Responding officers from Nghia Giang Commune Police were also attacked by Tuan as they tried to subdue him. He then fled into a eucalyptus plantation.

Dozens of officers were mobilized to search for Tuan for several hours before finally apprehending him this morning.

Pham Linh