On 22/5, Tran Minh Truong, a public official with Tax Base Unit 2 under Can Tho City Tax Department, was temporarily detained by Can Tho City Police. He is being investigated for abusing his position and power to appropriate property, an offense under Article 355 of the Penal Code.

Tran Minh Truong working with investigators. *Photo: Can Tho Police*

According to initial investigations, from 9/4 to 17/4, Tax Inspection Team 1 of Tax Base Unit 2, led by Truong, was assigned to inspect an agricultural company in Hung Phu ward. Two other tax officials also joined the team.

During the inspection, the team prepared a report but failed to provide it to the business, contrary to regulations. On 5/5, Truong informed the company director that the business had numerous tax violations and faced potentially large fines.

According to the complaint, Truong demanded the company director pay 250 million VND. In exchange, he promised to "reduce" the penalty and amend the inspection report to benefit the business.

Of this amount, Truong stated he would keep 185 million VND, while 65 million VND would be recorded in the official administrative penalty report.

Facing persistent pressure, the company director ultimately filed a complaint with Can Tho City Police.

On the afternoon of 18/5, as arranged by Truong, the business owner brought the money to a cafe on Le Nhat Tao street in Hung Phu ward. Can Tho City Police apprehended Truong in the act as he accepted 100 million VND.

Following the arrest, authorities searched Truong's residence and workplace, seizing numerous relevant documents and files.

An Binh