On october 2, the Criminal Police Department of Da Nang City Police announced the temporary detention of three individuals: Dang Quoc Vu, 30; Huynh Thi Phong, 31, both residents of Da Nang; and Nguyen Van Phu, 39, from Quang Ngai. They face charges of human trafficking of persons under 16 years old, as per Article 151 of the Penal Code.
The arrests stem from a broader investigation into the exchange and transfer of female staff among karaoke establishments in several districts of Quang Nam province, including Dien Ban, Duy Xuyen, Que Son, Thang Binh, Tam Ky, and Nui Thanh. Police recognized signs of human trafficking, prompting the establishment of Special Project 0926B.
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The three suspects in the case upon their arrest. *Photo: Thanh Huynh*
According to the investigation, Vu managed numerous hostesses in the Nui Thanh commune area. He allegedly transferred staff who did not comply with demands to other contacts or karaoke bar owners to offset debts.
Initial findings reveal specific instances of trafficking. On september 10, Vu reportedly received a 15-year-old girl to work in Nui Thanh commune. Ten days later, he allegedly transferred her to Huynh Thi Phong, manager of Ken karaoke bar in Tay Ho commune, for 4,7 million dong. Earlier, in june, Vu reportedly paid 15 million dong to Nguyen Van Phu for two girls, aged 15 and 13, both from Quang Ngai. Phu was identified as directly exploiting and supplying staff to karaoke bars in Quang Ngai.
The rescue operation took place on september 24, when five task forces simultaneously inspected several locations. They detained six people and rescued eight girls under 16 years old. Three of these girls were identified as direct victims of human trafficking, while five others were lured into working in karaoke rooms.
During an inspection of a house Vu rented for staff in Khuong My village, Nui Thanh commune, authorities discovered an additional eight individuals lured into karaoke service. This group included five girls under 16 and three between 16 and under 18 years old.
The Criminal Police Department of Da Nang City Police is continuing to expand the investigation into this case.
Ngoc Truong
