Man arrested in Vietnam for defrauding couple of $67,000 in "case running" scam

A man in Vietnam has been arrested for allegedly defrauding a couple of 1.7 billion Vietnamese dong (approximately $67,000 USD) by falsely promising to help their detained relative "run a case" and secure an acquittal.

Tran Van Thuan, 46, was arrested by police in Quang Ninh province on charges of fraud and asset appropriation. Authorities stated that an initial investigation revealed that in November 2025, a man identified as P.V.Đ was being investigated for illegally transporting goods and currency across the border.

Through an acquaintance, the wife of P.V.Đ, identified as N.T.G, learned that Thuan claimed to have connections capable of influencing the legal process. Thuan allegedly assured the couple that for 1.7 billion dong, he could ensure P.V.Đ received a "white case," meaning a full acquittal.

Believing his promises, the couple handed over the full amount. However, their efforts to "run the case" were unsuccessful. Investigators found that Thuan had no such connections and no ability to interfere with the ongoing investigation. Police believe Thuan knowingly made false claims to obtain the money for his own business needs, ultimately defrauding the couple.