On 5/5, Ho Chi Minh City Police announced an expanded investigation into Nguyen Manh Cuong, age 45, for fraudulent appropriation of property.

Nguyen Manh Cuong, leader of the lucky car license plate fraud ring. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Police

According to the investigation, Cuong, a freelancer, falsely presented himself as an official at the Government Inspectorate. He claimed to have connections with the Supreme People's Court and the Civil Judgment Enforcement Department, enabling him to assist people with land and housing procedures, and secure lucky license plates on demand. Victims, trusting Cuong's claims, transferred money to accounts he provided. Cuong then used these funds for personal expenses. When victims grew suspicious, he offered false updates, such as "authorities are requesting the recall of old license plates for new issuance," to buy time.

Investigators confirmed that Cuong defrauded victims of nearly 2,7 billion VND through this scheme. As the investigation expanded into the sale and transaction of lucky license plates, police identified two individuals directly involved: Nguyen Thi Loan, age 72, and Nguyen Nhat Tien Ngoc, age 36. Both were registered residents at a house on Tran Van Dang Street, Nhieu Loc ward. However, a physical check revealed Loan and Ngoc no longer live at this address, and their current whereabouts are unknown.

Ho Chi Minh City Police are now seeking Loan and Ngoc to ensure victims' rights and to fully address the illegal activities within the fraud ring. Authorities urge Loan and Ngoc to contact the Ho Chi Minh City Police Investigation Agency Office for cooperation.

Nhat Vy