On 23/12/2023, Le Quoc Huy, 21, and Tran Dang Khoa, 29, along with 29 other individuals, were tried at first instance by the Dong Thap Provincial People's Court on charges of murder; illegal storage and use of military weapons; and disturbing public order.

The trial panel is expected to announce the verdict on 26/12/2023.

The defendants at court. Photo: Nam An

According to the indictment, Huy had a dispute with Khoa after owing him money for a tattoo. On the evening of 6/5/2023, Huy gathered 24 young people, arming them with three handguns purchased online, homemade knives, three-pronged spears, and beer bottles, to "confront Khoa". Khoa's side also assembled five young people, preparing weapons to retaliate.

En route, the two groups rode motorcycles without helmets on National Highway 1, shouting and revving their engines, alarming many road users.

After damaging property at the tattoo parlor, the two groups engaged in a violent clash. Khoa was shot by two individuals from Huy's group, sustaining 28% injuries.

Upon arrest, they stated that each handgun was purchased for 3-4 million dong via social media.

The trial panel determined that Huy and Khoa were the masterminds, while the remaining individuals directly committed the criminal acts and acted as accomplices.

Huy's group has paid 30 million dong in compensation, and the victim is seeking an additional 25 million dong.

Nam An