On 20/7, the Investigation Police Agency Office of Hai Phong City Police announced the temporary detention of Ta Viet Dong, former Director of the Project Management Board, for investigation into the crime of abuse of power while on duty, as defined by Clause 4, Article 357 of the Penal Code.

The case originated from a petition filed by Toan My Company Limited, alleging violations that occurred in 2019 at an inland waterway pier in Tan Duong commune, Thuy Nguyen district (now Thuy Nguyen ward).

Initial investigation findings confirmed that Toan My Company Limited had leased land from competent authorities to develop an inland waterway terminal and a material collection yard in the alluvial area outside the Left Cam River dike. When the city decided to discontinue the project, on 5/9/2019, the company and the Project Management Board formalized an agreement on a resolution plan.

This agreement stipulated that the company would only relocate its assets and dismantle structures after the Project Management Board fully compensated it for site clearance work and other associated support.

However, the investigating agency revealed that from 11 to 14/9/2019, before full payment was made, without the company's consent, and lacking any enforcement decision from competent authorities, Dong issued multiple directives to demolish Toan My Company's pier.

The investigating agency asserted that, as Director of the Project Management Board, Dong lacked the authority to order the demolition of the company's assets. His directives to carry out the demolition, it is alleged, exceeded his designated functions and duties, resulting in exceptionally severe damage to the company.

Hai Phong City Police stated they are currently consolidating evidence and expanding the investigation to clarify the responsibilities of all involved organizations and individuals.

Ta Viet Dong at the police station. *Photo: Police provided*

The indictment of Ta Viet Dong is part of a focused campaign by Hai Phong City Police to combat corruption and misconduct, aimed at rigorously addressing abuses of power and infringements upon the legal rights and interests of organizations and businesses.

Le Tan