Vietnam: Three Arrested for Disturbing Public Order in Lào Cai

In Lào Cai province, authorities have taken decisive action against individuals accused of exploiting public complaint channels to sow disorder. Đỗ Văn Tiếp, Đinh Văn Hòa, and Nguyễn Mạnh Hùng, all residents of Bảo Thắng and Gia Phú communes, face charges of disturbing public order. This action underscores the government's commitment to maintaining stability and preventing the misuse of legal processes for disruptive purposes.

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The decisions and orders of the Provincial People's Procuracy have been approved.

The accused reportedly engaged in repeated complaints concerning land disputes and social policies. Despite receiving official responses and explanations from various levels of government, including central authorities and provincial bodies, they allegedly persisted in their actions. This defiance culminated in a demonstration on September 15, 2025, where protesters, allegedly incited by Tiếp and Hòa, gathered at the provincial People's Committee's citizen reception office. They reportedly displayed banners and made false statements, slandering high-ranking Party and State leaders, as well as provincial officials.

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Although the above contents have all been answered by central and local agencies, provincial People's Committee, and Provincial Police through written responses and direct invitations for meetings, notification of results, and explanations, these individuals intentionally did not comply.

This incident highlights a critical issue for Vietnamese authorities: balancing the right to petition and voice grievances with the need to prevent public disorder and protect the reputation of officials. The article from Tuổi Trẻ emphasizes that the individuals' actions were not merely complaints but deliberate attempts to disrupt normal operations and damage the honor of leaders. The legal proceedings initiated against them signal a firm stance against such behavior, aiming to deter future occurrences and uphold the rule of law. The investigation is ongoing, with further details expected as authorities continue to clarify the facts and ensure due process.

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At the peak on September 15, 2025, Mr. Tiếp and Mr. Hòa incited many people to gather at the provincial People's Committee's citizen reception office, displaying banners and making untrue statements.