Nguyen Van Thu, residing in Phuoc Hung hamlet, was detained by Long Hai Commune Police in Ba Ria - Vung Tau on 24/5 for investigation into property snatching.

According to the investigation, the incident occurred yesterday morning when Thu approached a 74-year-old woman selling lottery tickets on the sidewalk opposite Hai Lam church in Long Hai commune. He first asked to buy tickets, then requested her to help him exchange large bills.

Nguyen Van Thu at the police station. Photo: Tuyen Nguyen

As the woman took out her handbag, which contained one chi of 24K gold, 700,000 dong, and personal documents, Thu quickly snatched it and fled on his motorbike.

Long Hai Commune Police, working with the Ho Chi Minh City Criminal Police Department, launched an immediate investigation after receiving the report. By the afternoon of the same day, Thu was apprehended with the stolen property and personal documents.

During interrogation, Thu admitted that financial difficulties and the need for money led him to target vulnerable, elderly lottery ticket sellers.

Long Hai Commune Police has issued a warning, urging all residents, particularly lottery ticket vendors and motorbike taxi drivers, to avoid carrying large sums of cash, gold, or silver. They also advise against displaying valuables in front of strangers. When approached by someone asking for change or offering help, individuals should maintain a safe distance and watch for any suspicious behavior to prevent similar incidents.

Tuyen Nguyen