Gia Lai Provincial Police arrested and detained Tran Ky Anh, 23, along with brothers Phan Van Thuan, 30, known as "Tru Trok", and Phan Van Hoa, 24, known as "Truc Hoa", on 23/12. The three face murder charges following a violent incident at a local pub.

Phan Van Hoa (left) with his older brother Phan Van Thuan at the time of arrest. Photo: Ngoc Oanh.

The investigation revealed the events began in the early morning of 17/12. Hoa and Ky Anh were drinking at a pub on Hung Vuong street in Dien Hong ward when Hoa became involved in an altercation. While using the restroom, Hoa had a dispute with staff members and punched the pub manager. The manager and a friend immediately fought back.

Following the initial confrontation, Ky Anh drove Hoa home. There, Hoa recounted the incident to his older brother, Thuan. Ky Anh then drove Hoa and Thuan back to the pub on his motorbike. The brothers were armed with knives, machetes, and pepper spray. Upon returning, the group stormed the counter, attacking staff. The assault resulted in one person dying and two others sustaining injuries.

Later that day, all three suspects surrendered to the police and confessed their involvement.

Investigators determined Ky Anh did not directly attack the victims with weapons. However, he acted as an accomplice, assisting the brothers by transporting them to and from the scene and helping them prepare the weapons used in the crime. He made no attempt to intervene.

Tran Hoa