Phu Tho Provincial Police reported on 21/7 that the investigative police are holding 33-year-old Mai for unlawful detention and other potential offenses.
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Major General Nguyen Minh Tuan approaches the suspect holding the hostage in the car. Photo: Police Department |
Major General Nguyen Minh Tuan approaches the suspect holding the hostage in the car. Photo: Police Department
The incident began on the evening of 20/7, stemming from a personal dispute. Mai pursued a Xanh SM taxi driven by Cuong, with passenger Thu Trang, both residents of Tram Than commune. Upon reaching the Ngoc Thap bridge on Ho Chi Minh road in Hien Quan commune, Mai used a metal rod to smash the taxi's window.
He then attacked the driver with a knife, injuring him. He entered the vehicle, threatened Trang with the knife, cut her hair, and assaulted her, leaving her terrified. By 11 PM, Mai remained in the taxi, holding Trang hostage.
Alerted by the Criminal Police Department, Major General Tuan and the deputy director arrived to oversee the situation. Mai continued to yell, threaten officers with the weapon, and refused to leave the vehicle.
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The scene of the incident. Photo: Police Department |
The scene of the incident. Photo: Police Department
Assessing the tense situation, Major General Tuan approached Mai and began negotiations. Police also brought Mai’s parents and child to the scene in an attempt to persuade him. Another team stood ready to intervene if he became violent.
After over three hours, at approximately 2:30 AM on 21/7, police successfully apprehended Mai and safely rescued Trang. No injuries were reported.
The investigation is ongoing.
