On 12/7, Vu was issued a citation by Khanh Binh Commune Police for falsely reporting a crime.

Ha Quoc Vu points to the area where he faked the robbery. Photo: Tien Tam

Vu had approached the commune police with torn clothes and scratches, claiming he was robbed by 4 men on two motorcycles in a deserted area. He claimed they had taken his valuables.

Investigators examined the alleged crime scene and checked Vu's background. Inconsistencies in his story quickly emerged.

Vu eventually confessed to owing 11 million VND. He had given his valuables to his creditor and, fearing his family's reaction, fabricated the robbery story. He had torn his clothes and staged a motorcycle accident to support his claims.

False reports disrupt public order, waste resources, and erode public trust in authorities. Depending on the severity, false reporting can result in fines of 2 to 15 million VND or up to 7 years in prison.

Ngoc Tai - Tien Tam