On 28/2, Thanh Hoa provincial police's criminal investigation department arrested Pham Linh Duyen, 20, along with Le Anh Khoa, Bui Minh Hao, Tran Van Khoi, and Le Manh Hai, aged 18-22. All are residents of Linh Son commune, Thanh Hoa province, and are being investigated for murder and disturbing public order.

Pham Linh Duyen (center) and 4 accomplices. *Photo: Lam Son*

On the afternoon of 26/2, the group of 5 suspects attended a new year's party, first in Van Phu commune and then in Linh Son commune. Around 7 p.m. that day, while returning, the group encountered Le, 18, and a friend from Giao An commune at a junction leading into Oi hamlet, Linh Son commune. The victims were traveling in the opposite direction on motorbikes.

Due to a pre-existing conflict with Le, Bui Minh Hao rallied the group to turn back and pursue their rival. They intercepted Le's motorbike on an inter-hamlet road within Oi hamlet, an area surrounded by dense acacia forest with no nearby residences.

The group then assaulted Le with punches, kicks, helmets, and acacia branches. Authorities allege that during the attack, Pham Linh Duyen used a switchblade to stab Le in the left chest, causing his death.

Le Hoang