On 8/5, the Hanoi Criminal Police Department began verifying the incident and summoned a suspect for clarification.

A video clip, recorded by residents and posted online, shows the couple reporting the alleged overcharging. Photo: Screenshot from video.

According to a video recorded by a resident, the couple stated that on the evening of 7/5, they traveled from Bac Ninh to My Dinh bus station to catch a bus to Lai Chau. As they stopped in front of the bus station entrance, a motorbike taxi driver approached them, initiated a conversation, and invited them to ride.

However, after picking up the passengers, the driver did not take them to their requested destination, instead repeatedly reassuring them, "Don't worry, I won't trick you into anything bad."

After driving a short distance, the driver began demanding payment, but the wife refused, insisting they be taken to the correct location. At this point, several other individuals appeared, instructing the couple to separate, with each person taking a different motorbike taxi.

Upon reaching an area near Bac Thang Long industrial park, the group of drivers demanded 500,000 VND for the two rides. Noticing the couple had considerable luggage, they then asked for an additional 200,000 VND, citing "heavy baggage" as the reason.

According to the victims, when the husband protested, one person in the group pulled out a sharp object and threatened them. Fearing for their safety, the couple paid a total of 700,000 VND for the approximately 15 km journey.