Police in Ho Chi Minh City have arrested a luxury car driver and an accomplice following a violent road rage confrontation in the city center, highlighting growing concerns over public order and aggressive behavior in Vietnam’s rapidly expanding urban traffic environment.
Authorities confirmed that Ma Thanh, 49, the driver of a Bentley, and Ngo Duy Dong, 49, were urgently detained on February 12 on allegations of disturbing public order after reportedly chasing and assaulting another motorist following a traffic collision.
Altercation Erupts After Late-Night Collision
Investigators said the incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. two days earlier at a busy downtown intersection involving Nguyen Trai and Nguyen Van Trang streets in District 1, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s busiest commercial areas.
According to police findings, Thanh’s Bentley collided with a ride-hailing vehicle driven by a 34-year-old driver, who was transporting a 39-year-old passenger. Both vehicles stopped in the middle of the intersection to resolve the incident, but the situation quickly escalated into a heated argument.
Shortly afterward, Dong arrived at the scene on a motorcycle and allegedly joined Thanh in physically confronting and chasing the passenger. The altercation reportedly caused significant disruption to traffic and public order before traffic police and local officers intervened and restored calm.
Authorities Warn Against Escalating Traffic Disputes
Police said the two suspects’ actions created public disorder and obstructed traffic flow in a high-density area, prompting immediate legal action. The individuals involved were later taken in for questioning as investigators continue to examine the case.
Ho Chi Minh City police noted that many minor traffic incidents in Vietnam escalate unnecessarily when drivers fail to remain calm, sometimes leading to violence or injury. Authorities warned that aggressive behavior following traffic accidents can result in administrative penalties or criminal charges, depending on the severity of the incident.
Officials are urging drivers and residents to handle traffic disputes through lawful and civil channels, particularly as Vietnam’s major cities continue to experience rising traffic volumes alongside rapid economic growth and increased vehicle ownership.
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