The Vĩnh Long Provincial Police have issued a crucial warning about the safe use of social media, highlighting the urgent need for caution in light of recent tragic events, including the death of a female student in a traffic accident and a shooting incident in Vĩnh Xuân commune, Trà Ôn district.
In an article titled "Using Social Media Safely," the police department emphasized the diversity and rapid spread of information across social media platforms, which can attract attention from various segments of society. However, they cautioned users to remain vigilant against the overwhelming amount of information available, especially given the potential for misuse by hostile entities aiming to spread misinformation and distort facts.
Recent posts on social media have circulated details regarding a tragic traffic accident that occurred in 2024, which involved a female student and the subsequent shooting incident in Vĩnh Xuân commune that captured public interest. On April 28, 2025, a local man, Mr. N.V.P., aged 42, allegedly shot another man, Mr. N.V.B.T., aged 33, in La Ghì hamlet, following a dispute related to the handling of a traffic accident from September 4, 2024, that resulted in the death of Mr. P.'s child, N.N.B.Tr, born in 2010.
The police reported that unverified information regarding these incidents has been proliferating on social media platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, leading to a wave of public speculation and concern.
In response to the shooting, the Vĩnh Long Provincial Police promptly directed the Criminal Police Department to investigate Mr. P.'s actions, the origin of the weapon used, and the motives behind the crime. They also confirmed that the Ministry of Public Security has instructed the Investigation Agency Office to review the case surrounding the traffic accident and the subsequent complaint process.
On April 29, 2025, the Investigation Agency Office took over the case file for further review and handling, ensuring that all law enforcement activities are conducted according to legal procedures. The police reiterated that Vietnam is a law-abiding society, where all legal violations will be dealt with openly and transparently.
Additionally, the Vĩnh Long Provincial Police reported that they have recently fined individuals for providing or sharing false information, distorting facts, and defaming organizations or individuals. They urged the public to be cautious of misinformation and to rely on official sources before sharing information to avoid potential legal consequences.
The police reiterated, "Before official information is released by authorities, citizens must be vigilant against false information and the attempts of malicious actors to manipulate public opinion, which can complicate local security situations. It is essential to actively select official statements and accurate information from competent authorities and refrain from sharing unverified content to maintain personal credibility and avoid legal repercussions for spreading false information."
In a broader context, the Traffic Police Department reported alarming statistics regarding traffic accidents during the recent holiday period. On May 1, 2025, there were 65 traffic accidents nationwide, resulting in 28 fatalities and 58 injuries. Compared to the same period last year, this reflects a decrease of 10 accidents and 2 fewer deaths, although the number of injuries increased by 6.
The police handled a total of 8,875 violations during this period, temporarily seizing 43 cars, 2,614 motorcycles, and 68 other vehicles. They also revoked 332 driver's licenses and imposed penalties for various infractions, including 1,950 cases of driving under the influence of alcohol and 2,221 cases of speeding.
Traffic police have been particularly vigilant during the holiday season, as the increase in vehicle volume on highways raises the risk of violations. Common infractions include speeding, which is frequently detected by surveillance cameras, and failure to signal when changing lanes. Such violations can lead to severe penalties, including fines ranging from 800,000 to 14 million VND depending on the severity of the offense.
As the holiday season continues, the police are urging drivers to adhere strictly to traffic regulations, stressing that compliance is not only a legal obligation but also a means of protecting themselves and others on the road. Each violation poses a significant risk of accidents, potentially leading to fatal consequences if drivers do not act responsibly.
In related news, the Central Military Commission of the Ministry of National Defense recently expressed gratitude to the public for their support following the successful organization of a parade commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification. This event, held on May 1, 2025, left a profound impression on both the Vietnamese people and international observers, reinforcing national unity and patriotism.
As May progresses, forecasts indicate a potential increase in temperatures across the northern and central regions of Vietnam, with the possibility of rain and thunderstorms returning around May 5 due to the influence of cold air. The public is advised to stay informed about weather conditions and to exercise caution during this transitional season.
Overall, the Vĩnh Long Provincial Police's emphasis on responsible social media usage and adherence to traffic laws serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in both digital and physical spaces. As misinformation spreads and traffic incidents occur, the community must remain informed and cautious to ensure safety and uphold the law.
