In the early hours of 21/3, Captain Hai, 33, and his team were on reconnaissance for illegal sand mining activities in the Cai River area, specifically through Dong Trang 3 village. They discovered a raft moored near the bank showing suspicious signs. As the police team approached, the individuals on the raft quickly steered their vessel into the middle of the river and fled.

The Cai River section through Dong Trang 3 village, Dien Lam commune. Photo: Tuong Vy

Captain Hai immediately swam after the raft, attempting to secure the violating vessel. However, he subsequently drowned and went missing.

The Dien Lam Commune Police, in coordination with the Fire Prevention, Fighting, and Rescue Police Department (PC07) and other units, organized a search for the captain. Search teams found his body later that morning.

Local authorities, including the Party Committee, People's Council, People's Committee, and Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee of Dien Lam commune, sent representatives to visit, encourage, and offer condolences to Captain Hai's family.

Authorities are currently investigating the sand piracy case and have not yet released additional information.

Bui Toan