24-6-2023 (HANOI) The police in Vietnam have accused 75 individuals of terrorism after a series of gun attacks on two police headquarters in the country’s Central Highlands, resulting in the deaths of nine people.
Gun violence is extremely rare in Vietnam, where firearm ownership is illegal for citizens and the black market for weapons is limited.
On the morning of June 11, a group of individuals on motorbikes launched a coordinated attack on the people’s committee headquarters and police offices in Cu Kuin district, Dak Lak province. The assailants used firearms and other weapons, claiming the lives of four police officers, two local officials, and three civilians.
The Ministry of Public Security (MPS) described the attacks as an act of terrorism against the people’s administration, with grave consequences. In an online statement released on Friday, the MPS announced the initiation of a formal criminal investigation against 75 individuals on charges of terrorism, while eight others are being probed for aiding criminals.
Authorities have seized a significant cache of weapons, including 23 guns and rifles, two grenades, 1,199 bullets, and other explosive devices. The attacks have been condemned as “barbaric and inhumane.”
According to the statement, the police have evidence suggesting that the suspects received assistance from foreign individuals and organizations.
The Central Highlands, inhabited by various ethnic minorities, is a sensitive region for Vietnam’s authoritarian government and has been a source of discontent, particularly regarding land rights.
During Vietnam’s protracted war, some tribes in the area, collectively known as Montagnards, aligned themselves with the US-backed south. While some advocate for greater autonomy, others abroad call for outright independence for the region.
The police also reported confiscating 10 flags associated with the Fulro, a Montagnard resistance movement.
In response to the shootings, Cambodian leader Hun Sen ordered his armed forces to search border villages for suspects. He cautioned the United Nations refugee agency and international organizations to remain vigilant and refrain from aiding the suspects.
Terrorism offenses in Vietnam carry severe penalties, including the possibility of the death penalty.
