Tran Nhat Truong, 48, was arrested by An Giang Provincial Police detectives in Chau Thanh commune, Can Tho city, on 14/4, after a 10-day manhunt. Truong is suspected of the brutal murder of Nguyen Van Tuol, 59, in Phu Quoc.

Tuol, who lived alone in a rented room near Phu Quoc airport, was found dead on 4/4 after residents reported a strange odor. He had been stabbed nearly 30 times. No weapon was found at the crime scene, which was quiet. Investigators initially faced challenges due to the victim's complex relationships.

Tran Nhat Truong at the investigative agency. Photo: Duong Dong

Extensive manhunt for the killer

The case caused public concern, prompting Major General Nguyen Van Han, director of An Giang Provincial Police, to establish a special investigation unit. Detectives recovered a curved knife and a blood-stained handle, wrapped in a towel, discarded about 200 m from the crime scene. Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Chi Nguyen, head of the Criminal Police Department of An Giang Provincial Police, indicated that traces on the weapon suggested the suspect was not a frequent visitor or associated with drug use, which had been an initial lead.

One team reconstructed Tuol's movements, discovering that on 31/3, he met an unknown young man at roundabout number 10. They both traveled to his rented room. Residents recognized the man but knew little about his background or residence. Through tip-offs and collected images, police confirmed the suspect had left Phu Quoc by speedboat, using a false identity.

Detectives continued to review relationships, clarifying Truong's identity. During his escape, the suspect constantly erased his tracks, even returning home to Vi Thanh, Can Tho city, to ask relatives for money. Special units then tightened the pursuit, ambushing and arresting him.

Confession still has 'unclear points'

At the investigative agency, Truong claimed he met Tuol at a melon stall near roundabout number 10. He stated he was carrying a curved knife at the time, intending to find someone with whom he had a prior conflict but did not encounter them.

Truong accepted an invitation to Tuol's room for drinks. There, the two developed a relationship. Truong alleged that Tuol promised him 200,000 VND but did not keep his word. During an argument, Truong claimed Tuol attacked him with a knife, and he fought back, using his own weapon to stab Tuol multiple times.

After the crime, the suspect changed clothes and discarded the weapon while fleeing.

The investigative agency is continuing to clarify Truong's statement.

Ngoc Tai - Duong Dong