Hanoi police arrested 32-year-old Phan Hanh Thuong, a resident of Phu Thuong ward, on August 30 for fraud. Thuong is accused of scamming people by selling fake invitations to a national parade.

Investigators found that Thuong used her Facebook account, "Phan Hanh Thuong", to advertise invitations for 2 million VND each. To build trust, she claimed the invitations were gifts from acquaintances and asked buyers for their identification information to "activate" the tickets.

Thuong also recruited another person to help find buyers for her scheme.

Phan Hanh Thuong at the police station. Photo: Hanoi Police

Phan Hanh Thuong at the police station. Photo: Hanoi Police

By August 27, Thuong had collected 135 million VND and promised to deliver 68 invitations. After receiving the money, she used it to pay off debts and for personal expenses, without providing any invitations.

Hanoi police have also identified other individuals online advertising invitations to the parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day.

Authorities emphasized that this is a major national event organized by the Central Steering Committee for Major Anniversaries. Invitations are strictly managed and distributed to designated attendees; there are no public ticket sales.

Therefore, offers to sell invitations are fraudulent, exploiting public excitement to steal money.

Hanoi police are warning the public to be wary of such scams. Anyone exploiting the A80 celebrations for personal gain will face legal consequences.

Hai Thu