On 28/4, the Dak Lak Provincial People's Court held a trial in absentia for Nguyen Dinh Thang (born 1958). His last known residence before leaving Vietnam was at 14/40C Ky Dong, Nhieu Loc ward, Ho Chi Minh City; he currently resides in the US. The court heard charges related to terrorism.

The Dak Lak Provincial People's Court tried defendant Nguyen Dinh Thang in absentia on the morning of 28/4. Photo: Nguyen Ha

According to the indictment, Thang serves as Chairman and General Director of the Committee to Save Boat People - BPSOS, an organization with headquarters in the US and an office in Thailand. The Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security has issued a notice identifying BPSOS as being involved in terrorism. Thang also directed the establishment, management, and operation of the Montagnards for Justice - MSFJ organization in Thailand, which the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security has similarly identified as a terrorist organization.

Through these organizations, Thang directed, incited, lured, and aided Y Quynh Bdap, who led a group within Vietnam to commit terrorist acts and murder on 11/6/2023. These acts occurred in Ea Ktur and Ea Tieu communes, located in the former Cu Kuin district of Dak Lak province. The consequences of this case were particularly serious.

The terrorist group's motive was to cause panic and fear among the populace, thereby undermining public order and safety in Vietnam.

Nguyen Dinh Thang. Photo: Ministry of Public Security

After evaluating the nature and severity of the defendant's criminal acts, the Judicial Council sentenced Nguyen Dinh Thang to 11 years in prison.

Nguyen Ha