On the afternoon of 18/9, the Vinh Long Provincial Police announced the initial findings regarding human remains found in a pickup truck. The vehicle was discovered yesterday noon by local residents in the Chet Say canal, Phuoc Thanh neighborhood, Phu Tan ward.

The vehicle, identified as a silver Toyota Hilux G with license plate 51C-383.51, was found overturned and submerged about 50 meters from the canal bank. The exterior of the pickup truck showed multiple signs of impact, including dents on the front bumper, hood, and door frames. The hood was broken, and both the front windshield and the front right door glass were shattered.

Area where the pickup truck was found in the canal. *Nam An*

During the salvage operation, authorities discovered numerous bone fragments of various sizes falling from inside the vehicle, suspected to be human remains. Upon inspecting the vehicle, investigators found personal documents identifying Le Hong Tien, 45, from Quang Ngai, along with papers related to Y Nga Co., Ltd., and other assets.

Police also seized a leather bag containing over 144 million VND, clothing, a hat, shoes, and additional documents pertaining to Mr. Tien and the company.

A partial forensic examination of the remains revealed several arm, leg, and rib bones. Forensic examiners provided a preliminary assessment, estimating the victim's height at approximately 1,68 meters and age between 40-45 years old, with the time of death estimated at around three months prior. Samples have been collected for DNA testing to confirm identity.

Man missing while collecting debts

Investigators determined that the pickup truck belongs to Y Nga Co., Ltd., a construction materials business located in Tan Nhut commune, Ho Chi Minh City. The company is directed by Luu Thi Mong Tuyen, 50, and has numerous business partners throughout the Mekong Delta.

Previously, on 8/6, Ms. Tuyen assigned Nguyen Van Huy, 49, to drive the automobile, transporting Do Huu Tri, 43, and Le Hong Tien to the former Ben Tre and Tra Vinh areas to collect outstanding debts.

Pickup truck covered in mud after being salvaged. *Provided by local residents*

Around 7:30 on 12/6, the three men arrived at a cafe in neighborhood 3, Phu Tan ward. Before entering the cafe, Mr. Tri left a black briefcase in the car, which contained over 363 million VND collected for the company.

While having coffee, Mr. Tien borrowed the car keys to access report documents from the vehicle. He then stated he would drive to get breakfast.

A while later, when Mr. Tien had been gone for an extended period, Mr. Tri sent him a text message. Mr. Tien replied that he was suffering from diarrhea and needed intravenous fluids. Approximately 20 minutes later, Mr. Tien messaged Mr. Tri and Mr. Huy, instructing them to return to the hotel, check out, and head home that day.

The two men returned to the hotel, collected their belongings, and waited for Mr. Tien. By approximately 10:30 that day, Mr. Tien had not returned. Mr. Tri attempted to call him but was unable to make contact.

After many days without contact from Mr. Tien, Mr. Huy filed a report with the Vinh Long Provincial Police Investigation Agency.

Authorities are continuing to collect DNA samples to conclusively identify the remains and determine the cause of the incident.

*Nam An*