On 23/7, Manh appeared before the People's Court of Ho Chi Minh City via video link from the T30 - Chi Hoa Detention Center, facing charges of attempted murder and illegal possession and use of a military weapon.

Manh, small in stature, appeared on screen from his cell.

Defendant Trinh Hung Manh at T30 Prison, Cu Chi. Photo: Screenshot

According to the indictment, Manh began a relationship with Nhi after she separated from her common-law husband in 2023. However, in early February 2024, Nhi ended the relationship with Manh and returned to her former partner, leading to conflict between Manh and Nhi's former partner.

On the afternoon of 3/2/2024, Manh went to Nhi's house to talk, but she refused to see him. Learning that she was with her former partner, Manh retrieved a six-round handgun, hid it on his person, and returned to Nhi's residence. A confrontation ensued between Manh and his "rival," during which Manh was punched in the head. He then drew his gun and shot the man in the abdomen.

Nhi's brother-in-law, present at the scene, subdued Manh and handed him over to the police. The victim survived after receiving emergency medical treatment, but sustained injuries resulting in a 36% disability rating.

In court, Manh admitted to his actions and expressed remorse. He claimed to have purchased the gun online from an unknown seller for 6 million VND in 2023 "for self-defense." "I lost control due to jealousy. I ask the court for leniency so I can return to my family soon," Manh pleaded.

Manh's mother, called to testify, wept and stated that she had paid the victim 80 million VND in compensation on her son's behalf, asking the court for leniency.

After deliberation, the court sentenced Manh to 12 years for attempted murder and three years for illegal possession and use of a military weapon, resulting in a combined sentence of 15 years.

The court stated that Manh's actions were thuggish, the victim's survival was unintentional, and the multiple offenses warranted a strict sentence. The court acknowledged mitigating factors such as Manh's previously clean record, young age, student status, and compensation paid to the victim.

Binh Nguyen