Twenty-seven young individuals responsible for these incidents were recently tried and sentenced by the People's Court (TAND) in sessions held on 11/3 and 12/3.

For the crimes of murder and disturbing public order, defendant Le Viet Anh, 19, residing in Nghia Tru commune, Hung Yen, was sentenced to 10 years in prison; Nguyen Huu Bach, 20, residing in Hong Quang commune, Hung Yen, received 13 years and six months; and Le Quoc Bao, 18, residing in Lao Dao commune, Hung Yen province, was sentenced to 9 years and six months in prison.

For the same charges, the remaining defendants were sentenced to terms ranging from one year and six months to 12 years and six months.

The defendants in court. Photo: Danh Lam

The People's Procuracy (VKS) determined that Bao had a conflict with an unidentified group of youths. On 20/4/2025, he discussed with his "brothers" to prepare for a fight.

The group pooled money to buy materials and fabricate iron pipes fitted with knives, sword blades, and tridents, which they then hid in a home garden.

Around 14h30 on 26/4/2025, Bao messaged the group to gather at an urban area in Gia Lam. Following his call, at 19h the same day, the reckless youth gang assembled, riding on multiple motorbikes.

After Bao distributed the weapons, the entire group agreed to travel to Pho Noi Industrial Park, also in Hung Yen province. Along the way, the defendants sped, honked horns, yelled, cursed, and threatened other road users.

Bao's group, while on a road in Duong Xa commune, former Gia Lam district, encountered a group of six people, including Mr. Le, riding motorbikes in the opposite direction. Despite being strangers, Bao's group shouted and chased them to attack.

Viet Anh, riding pillion on Bach's motorbike, used a trident to stab the victim in the shoulder and left back. Mr. Le was promptly taken to emergency care by friends and locals, sustaining a 44% injury.

In this case, some members engaged in speeding, swerving, honking loudly, and disturbing public order but were not yet 16 years old, thus not subject to criminal liability. The investigative agency sent an official letter to local authorities, recommending the application of local educational measures.

Hai Thu