On the night of April 18, 2025, police in Thanh Hoa Province announced the arrest of Bui Dinh Khanh, the main suspect in a drug trafficking case that resulted in the tragic death of Lieutenant Nguyen Dang Khai. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and raised serious concerns about drug-related violence in the region.
Bui Dinh Khanh, born in 1994 and a resident of Ha Long City, was apprehended while hiding in Thanh Hoa. His arrest came just a day after he allegedly opened fire on police officers, leading to the fatal injury of Lieutenant Khai, who was part of the Quang Ninh Province's Drug Crime Investigation Police Department.
According to reports, around 10 PM on April 18, a task force from the Criminal Police Department, in coordination with the Dong Hai Ward Police, successfully located and arrested Khanh in the bypass area of the Le Mon neighborhood, Dong Hai Ward. This operation was part of a broader effort to apprehend Khanh after he had been on the run following the violent confrontation.
The events leading to Khanh's arrest began on April 17, when police intercepted a drug trafficking operation near the Dragon Castel apartment complex in Ha Long City. During this operation, they arrested Nguyen Huu Dang, aged 58, who was found with 16 bricks of heroin. This bust was part of a larger investigation into a significant drug trade network.
As police pursued the remaining suspects, they encountered armed resistance. During this confrontation, Khanh and his accomplices reportedly fired AK rifles at the officers, resulting in the injury of two police officers, including Lieutenant Khai. Despite immediate medical attention at Bai Chay Hospital, Khai succumbed to his injuries, marking a tragic loss for the police force and the community.
In the aftermath of the shooting, police intensified their efforts to locate Khanh and other suspects involved in the drug ring. By 4:30 AM on April 18, authorities had also apprehended two additional suspects, Hoang Van Dong and Ha Quang Son, who were found trying to escape.
In a statement released by the Quang Ninh Provincial Police, they confirmed that Khanh had been charged with illegal drug trafficking under Clause 4, Article 251 of the Penal Code. The police also recovered multiple items during the operation, including 2 military firearms, a grenade, and three vehicles, which are believed to be connected to the drug trade.
On the same day of Khanh's arrest, Deputy Minister of Public Security Nguyen Van Long visited the family of Lieutenant Khai to express condolences and support. He presented a decision to posthumously promote Khai from the rank of Thuong uy to Lieutenant, acknowledging his bravery and sacrifice in the line of duty.
During the visit, Long also provided financial assistance to Khai's family from the Public Security's Nghia Tinh Dong Doi Fund and the Central Crime Prevention Fund. This gesture highlighted the commitment of the Ministry of Public Security to support the families of fallen officers.
In recognition of his service, the President of Vietnam has posthumously awarded Lieutenant Khai the First-Class Military Exploit Order, while the Prime Minister has signed a decision granting him the "Tổ quốc ghi công" certificate, officially recognizing him as a martyr.
The tragic events surrounding Lieutenant Khai's death have reignited discussions about the dangers faced by law enforcement in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Vietnam. Authorities are now calling for increased support and resources to combat this growing problem.
As the investigation continues, the police remain vigilant in their efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks and ensure the safety of the community. The loss of Lieutenant Khai serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in this critical work and the sacrifices made by those who serve in law enforcement.
In a statement reflecting on the incident, Nguyen Van Long praised Khai's courage, stating, "His sacrifice is a shining example of the spirit of serving the country and the people. It adds to the proud tradition of the Vietnamese police force and motivates our officers to continue their mission with dedication and bravery."
The community mourns the loss of a dedicated officer while also rallying around the ongoing efforts to combat drug-related violence. As law enforcement agencies work tirelessly to bring criminals to justice, the hope is that such tragedies can be prevented in the future.
