Vietnam Insider

Authorities in Ho Chi Minh City are investigating a viral video allegedly showing a dental clinic owner in Gò Vấp assaulting clients with threats and violence.

On the evening of September 7, several clips spread across social media, capturing a woman in a white medical coat — identified as the clinic’s dentist-owner — aggressively confronting customers. The footage shows her shoving, choking, and striking a female client before seizing and smashing her phone. She also attacked a man who tried to intervene and hurled objects, including fruit, at the victim.

The incident occurred at T.T. Dental Clinic on Trần Thị Nghỉ Street, Hạnh Thông Ward. Local police have summoned involved parties for questioning and are compiling case records. Initial reports suggest the dispute arose over dental treatment.

The HCMC Department of Health confirmed the clinic, licensed since 2019, is operated by Dr. N.T.T.C., 40, with a valid practice certificate. The department said it is working with police to investigate and ensure appropriate action.

Authorities stressed the case remains under review and pledged strict handling if violations are confirmed.

Tây Ninh police have arrested Nguyen Thanh Nha (51), accused of killing a woman and transporting her body more than 70 km to conceal the crime.

According to investigators, Nha had been living with T.T.D. (32) in a rented room near An Ha Bridge, Đức Hòa commune, Tây Ninh, since January 2025. The two cohabited as husband and wife.

Nha told police that he became jealous after learning that D. was romantically involved with other men. On the evening of August 29, he saw her leaving a guesthouse with another man. Later that night, the two argued in his rented room.

At around 11 p.m., Nha said D. attacked him with a knife. He blocked the strike, grabbed the weapon, and struck her on the back of the head, rendering her unconscious. When he checked, he realized she was dead.

Shortly after midnight on August 30, Nha placed her body in a red plastic bag, tied it shut, and used his motorbike to transport it to a remote area.

On the morning of September 7, local farmers in Bình Hiệp commune discovered decomposing body parts and alerted authorities.

Tây Ninh police are continuing their investigation and have confirmed that Nha faces charges of murder and disposal of a corpse under Vietnamese law.

Singer Dam Vinh Hung’s legal team has filed a motion to remand with the U.S. Federal Court, requesting that his lawsuit against businessman Gerard Williams be returned to the California Superior Court in Orange County. The filing, submitted on September 4 (U.S. time), also seeks reimbursement of $14,994 (approx. VND 395 million) in attorney’s fees and related costs.

Why Dam Vinh Hung Wants the Case Sent Back

According to Hung’s lawyers, the removal request filed by Gerard Williams violated federal rules for two main reasons:

1. Late filing – Williams submitted his notice more than 30 days after receiving the lawsuit and summons in November 2024, missing the statutory deadline.

2. Forum Defendant Rule – This rule prevents removal if the defendant is a citizen of the state where the case was originally filed. Hung’s legal team argues Williams is a California resident but misrepresented himself as a Missouri resident to bypass the rule.

They also cited Williams’ past legal filings in which he declared California residency, contradicting his current claim.

Fee Reimbursement Request

Invoking Section 28 U.S.C. 1447(c), Hung’s side asked the court to order Williams to cover their legal expenses. They noted that despite repeated attempts to arrange a case conference with Williams’ attorneys throughout August and early September, none of the eight law firms representing Williams responded.

Strategic Moves

Hung’s team accused Williams of trying to delay proceedings by moving the case to federal court. They stressed that the lawsuit—originally filed in Orange County, California—should remain under state jurisdiction, where both parties had previously acknowledged residency.

Williams, however, has argued that Hung’s true residence is in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and that his own is in Missouri—reframing the case as an international dispute suitable for federal court.

The outcome of this jurisdictional battle will determine not only where the case is tried but also which rules and jury pool will govern the proceedings.

In the first eight months of 2025, 409,222 cholera cases were reported across 31 countries, resulting in 4,738 deaths. Vietnam’s Ministry of Health has warned of the risk of cholera entering the country through international trade and travel.

Vietnam cholera-free for 12 years, but threat persists

According to the Ministry, Vietnam has not recorded any cholera cases in the past 12 years. No outbreaks have been detected in Europe or the Western Pacific region either, while most current cases are concentrated in the Eastern Mediterranean and Africa.

However, with Vietnam’s increasing global exchanges, the possibility of cholera spreading into the country and the community cannot be ruled out.

Health authorities step up monitoring

The Ministry has coordinated with the World Health Organization (WHO) to stay updated on global developments and has directed national hygiene and epidemiology institutes, Pasteur institutes, and central hospitals to strengthen surveillance and prevention efforts.

The public is urged to:

• Wash hands with soap before meals and after using the toilet.

• Eat cooked food, drink boiled water, and ensure food safety.

• Use clean water and protect water sources.

• Seek medical care immediately for symptoms such as severe vomiting and diarrhea leading to dehydration.

Global fatalities surge 46%

WHO reported that while cholera cases worldwide fell by 20% compared to the same period in 2024, deaths increased by 46%. Six out of 31 affected countries recorded a fatality rate above 1%. The organization warned that the current global situation is complex, with high risks of further cross-border spread.

Police in Da Nang have arrested a 26-year-old man who threatened a couple with a knife to steal their motorbike before attacking two others, causing panic in Thăng An commune.

On September 7, the city’s investigative police office confirmed the temporary detention of Thái Anh Tuấn (26, residing in Thăng Trường, Da Nang) on charges of robbery and intentional injury.

According to the investigation, around dusk on August 29, Tuấn armed himself with a 31cm knife and walked toward the house of H.Đ. (63) in Hưng Mỹ hamlet, Thăng An commune, intending to confront him over a family dispute.

On the way, Tuấn spotted N.C.K. (22) and his wife riding past on a motorbike. He blocked their path, brandished the knife, and shouted “This is a robbery!” Terrified, the couple abandoned their vehicle and fled.

Tuấn then rode to H.Đ.’s house, where he attacked the homeowner and his son H.V.Q. (40), leaving both with arm injuries. Locals quickly intervened, restraining Tuấn and handing him over to police.

The Da Nang police are consolidating case files to proceed with prosecution.

Police in Ho Chi Minh City have arrested a suspect who allegedly staged a fake purchase at a nutrition porridge shop before snatching a mobile phone from a 3-year-old girl.

Security camera footage shows the man, wearing a mask, arriving on a motorbike at a porridge shop on Dong Tam Street, Ba Diem Commune, Hoc Mon District. While the shop owner was preparing an order, he suddenly grabbed the phone from the girl’s hand, slipped it into his pocket, and fled on his bike.

The incident, which took place on September 4, quickly went viral online, sparking public outrage. The stolen phone was reportedly worth over VND 5 million.

Local police launched an immediate investigation, tracking down and arresting the suspect. On September 5, authorities brought him back to the scene to reenact the crime as part of the investigation. The suspect’s identity has not yet been released.

Ho Chi Minh City police are investigating after video clips circulated online showing a man chasing and repeatedly attacking a young motorcyclist in District 1.

On September 5, local authorities confirmed that Tan Dinh Ward Police, in coordination with the Ben Thanh Traffic Police Team, are working to identify the suspect.

At least three videos recorded from different angles by passersby captured the incident. A red scooter was seen lying on the street as the assailant shouted, then used his elbows to strike the head of a young man sitting on a black motorbike. The victim appeared to plead for mercy, shielded himself, and tried to escape.

The attacker continued chasing the victim into a nearby medical center, forcing security guards, medical staff, and bystanders to intervene before he eventually left the scene on his motorbike. The violent episode drew a large crowd.

Authorities later verified the incident occurred on the afternoon of September 4 along Tran Nhat Duat Street, Tan Dinh Ward.

Police also obtained a separate clip the same day showing the same man—riding without a helmet—ramming his motorbike into the rear of a car on Phan Dinh Phung Street, Phu Nhuan District.

Tan Dinh Ward Police are coordinating with relevant units to track down the suspect and clarify the circumstances of both incidents.

The Bac Ninh General Hospital No.1 has dismissed two employees and disciplined another following public outrage over a case in which a patient’s family was charged 21 million VND (around USD 830) for a 200 km ambulance ride.

On September 5, the Bac Ninh Department of Health reported to the provincial authorities that hospital driver Vu Van Giap, 41, and nurse Nguyen Van Thang, 34, were both fired for serious misconduct. Another nurse, Nguyen Thi Thiu, 30, received a formal warning.

The decision came after an investigation into complaints made by the family of a patient from Thai Nguyen. On August 19, the patient’s relatives arranged for an ambulance transfer from Bac Ninh to Thai Nguyen, a journey of roughly 200 km. Upon arrival, they were asked to pay 21 million VND, including 4 million VND for the accompanying doctor.

The incident quickly spread on social media, sparking widespread criticism that the cost was excessive and exploitative. Following public pressure, the driver contacted the family and refunded 16 million VND.

Hospital leaders later met with the patient’s relatives, convened a disciplinary council, and reviewed the responsibilities of involved departments. Authorities said the strict action was necessary to restore public trust and prevent similar violations in the future.

The case highlights growing concerns over healthcare transparency and patient protection in Vietnam, where hospitals are under pressure to ensure ethical conduct and fair treatment for patients.

Relying too much on travel influencers, cramming the whole country into one trip, or skipping street food—these are just some of the common mistakes that can ruin a first visit to Vietnam.

Travel writer Joshua Zukas, who has lived in Hanoi for 12 years and contributed to 10 Vietnam travel guidebooks, says glossy tourism ads often paint an unrealistic picture of Vietnam. The reality is more complex—and first-time visitors often fall into these traps:

1. Trying to See All of Vietnam in One Trip

Vietnam may look small on a map, but its length is comparable to Japan or Italy. Traveling between north, central, and south takes hours. With just 1–2 weeks, it’s better to focus on one region.

2. Getting Frustrated by the Weather

From freezing northern winters to Mekong Delta heatwaves and central Vietnam’s autumn typhoons, weather is unpredictable. Instead of stressing, pack accordingly and remember: locals deal with it daily.

3. Fear of Missing Out

There’s no single “must-see” spot in Vietnam. Chasing viral destinations can mean crowds and disappointment. The best trips come from following your own interests.

4. Following Influencers Blindly

TikTok and Instagram clips can mislead. Instead of chasing picture-perfect illusions, look for content creators based in Vietnam who share authentic insights.

5. Skipping Street Food

Vietnam’s best food is often found at tiny shops specializing in one dish. From Hanoi’s bánh cuốn to Saigon’s seafood stalls, street eats are essential.

6. Not Buying a Local SIM

Wi-Fi isn’t enough. For just $10/month, Vietnam’s mobile data is cheap, fast, and reliable. eSIMs and local SIMs make travel smoother.

7. Ignoring Guidebooks

In the age of AI-generated blogs and fake reviews, a well-researched guidebook—print or digital—remains the smartest investment for a real, informed travel experience.

A convicted rapist who faked his own death and fled to Spain was finally caught after his obsession with working out at a local gym gave him away.

On September 3, the High Court in Glasgow found James Clacher, 57, guilty of raping two women he met on dating apps Tinder and Bumble.

• First rape: On August 24, 2019, he violently assaulted a woman just 15 minutes after meeting her at her home following a Tinder match.

• Second rape: On September 4, 2020, he raped another woman at her Glasgow apartment after connecting via Bumble.

Facing rape charges in May 2022, Clacher staged his disappearance by leaving his car near a forest in Argyll and Bute, along with a suicide note blaming one of his victims. Police initially believed he had taken his own life, while in reality he was preparing a carefully planned escape.

The Gym Obsession That Exposed Him

Clacher survived in the woods before secretly making his way to Spain. Under the alias “Johnny Wilson,” he settled in the southern town of Nerja, working as a gardener and teaching yoga classes on the beach. He also started dating a local woman.

But his compulsive visits to Time Sport gym drew attention. In 2023, a public tip-off linked him to the area. Six months later, plainclothes Spanish police arrested him during a yoga session at Costa del Sol.

Authorities revealed that his fitness fixation ultimately betrayed his hiding place.

Clacher admitted to police that he had crossed the UK into France hidden in a truck, then cycled into Spain. He even considered building a kayak to paddle across to Morocco.

After nearly two years on the run, Clacher now faces a lengthy prison sentence for his crimes.

Hanoi – On September 4, the Hanoi People’s Court opened the trial of Bui Trung Duc (33, Ho Chi Minh City) and 19 accomplices, charged with large-scale investment fraud through fake forex platforms.

Prosecutors said Duc was part of a network led by “Mr Pips” Pho Duc Nam and “Mr Hunter” Le Khac Ngo. The group allegedly set up 27 shell companies and cloned international-sounding trading sites like ZenoMarkets, Londonex, CHMarkets, TradeTime, LPLtrade, and DexInvesting. In reality, all trades were rigged against investors, with deposits funneled straight into company-controlled accounts.

More than 1,000 phone numbers and hundreds of staff were used to cold-call victims, promising quick profits. Sales agents, mostly in their 20s, were trained to build trust by first letting clients make small withdrawals before pushing them to invest larger sums. Once hooked, customers were manipulated into escalating trades until their accounts were wiped out.

Police have so far proven 12 cases worth 11 billion VND ($430,000), including one 66-year-old Hanoi woman who lost 6.7 billion VND. Authorities have seized cash, luxury cars, gold, real estate, and designer goods, with total assets recovered in the wider “Mr Pips” case exceeding 5.3 trillion VND ($208 million).

Nam (“Mr Pips”) was arrested in late 2024, accused of defrauding over 2,600 investors. Ngo (“Mr Hunter”) remains on the run, while his wife was arrested in Thailand in July under an Interpol warrant.

USA – Luu Tu Bao, President of the Vietnam Boxing Federation (VBF), is under suspicion of being Bao Tu Luu, the alleged ringleader of a transnational crime syndicate that attempted to smuggle 178 kilograms of cocaine into Australia between 2016 and 2017.

Rumors about Bao’s arrest surfaced after months of silence from him. On September 4, the VBF held an emergency meeting and confirmed Bao could no longer perform his duties due to ongoing legal issues in the United States. The federation announced plans to hold an extraordinary congress to elect a new president.

According to San Francisco Public Safety News (June 30), the U.S. District Court in San Francisco is reviewing Australia’s extradition request for a man named “Bao Tu Luu,” whose identity matches that of Luu Tu Bao. The outlet also published a photo of Bao from an October 2023 boxing event in Ho Chi Minh City.

Court filings allege that Bao Tu Luu—also known as Chris Luu, “Big Brother,” or “BB”—was wanted by Australian authorities for conspiracy to import cocaine across borders. The Australian Federal Police (AFP) describe him as the leader of the smuggling network, working with associates across Australia, Canada, Colombia, Panama, and Vietnam.

Investigators say Bao directly supervised operations, financed shipments, and even met undercover agents in Ho Chi Minh City. Recorded conversations and encrypted text exchanges reportedly show him acknowledging his role as the group’s leader.

In April 2025, Luu was arrested in Santa Clara County, California, after traveling to the Bay Area for a funeral. He appeared in federal court on June 30, where he confirmed his identity and heard the charges. A U.S. judge ordered him detained pending further hearings, with the next scheduled for January 29, 2026. If extradited and convicted in Australia, he could face life imprisonment.

Who is Luu Tu Bao?

Luu, 49, was elected President of the Vietnam Boxing Federation in October 2023 and also served as Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Mixed Martial Arts Federation and CEO of Saigon Sports Club. He was awarded an honorary belt by the WBA Asia in 2023 for his contributions to boxing.

Earlier this year, Bao left Vietnam for the U.S., citing family matters. Since then, VBF members had struggled to reach him. Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture and Sports is now coordinating with the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to verify his legal situation abroad.

Dapale Alkesh Kashinath, 28, an Indian national, has been sentenced to seven years in prison and fined VND 50 million ($2,000) by the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Court for illegally transporting 362 diamonds valued at nearly VND 8.5 billion ($330,000) into Vietnam.

Kashinath, who worked for Sun Rays Company in Mumbai, admitted that under instructions from company owner Pratik Kirit Mehta, he had carried diamonds into Vietnam multiple times since 2017, earning about 10,000 Rupees ($120) per trip.

On October 25, 2024, he transported 350 diamonds from India to Hong Kong, received 12 more, and entered Vietnam via Tan Son Nhat International Airport without declaring them to customs.

Police and customs officers discovered 15 plastic bags of natural diamonds hidden inside two candy boxes in his luggage. Experts later confirmed their value at nearly VND 8.5 billion.

Authorities said Kashinath had smuggled diamonds into Vietnam on at least six or seven occasions before his arrest, delivering them to clients whose identities remain unknown.

At trial, Kashinath admitted following his employer’s orders and pleaded for a fine instead of prison, citing over a year in detention. However, the court rejected the request, noting he had no verified assets in Vietnam.