On 13/1, Huong and Hoai, 53, were arrested and charged by the Ha Tinh Provincial Police Investigation Security Agency. They face charges of abusing their positions and powers while performing official duties, under Article 356 of the Penal Code.

Suspects Huong and Hoai (second and third from right) at the investigation agency. Photo: *Provided by police*

Huong serves as the director of the Ha Tinh Sports Training and Competition Center, an entity under the Ha Tinh Provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Hoai is the center's chief accountant. This center is responsible for selecting, managing, and training athletes to achieve high performance and records for the province.

Annually, in addition to the general State budget allocated for the center's training, Ha Tinh province also provides a separate fund to select and train high-achieving athletes. Authorities accuse Huong and Hoai of colluding to siphon off these provincial funds meant for athlete training. This scheme allegedly resulted in athletes receiving less money than the budget disbursed for their support. The violations have reportedly occurred over approximately three years. Police have not yet disclosed the exact amount embezzled, as the investigation is ongoing.

The alleged misconduct was uncovered by the Internal Political Security Department of the Ha Tinh Provincial Police. The department initiated a special investigation after discovering suspicious activities related to legal violations within the sports sector.

Following the arrests of the director and chief accountant, the Ha Tinh Provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism temporarily appointed Phan Van Truong, the center's deputy director, to manage and oversee its operations.

Duc Hung