Man killed in robbery after flaunting wealth on social media

Police in Tien Giang Province announced on Wednesday to detain Tran Nguyen Huu Thang, 27, and Nguyen Chi Linh, 23, both local men, as part of an investigation into homicide and robbery.

According to investigators, Thang and Linh were unemployed, heavily indebted, and unable to repay their debts. They targeted Long, a 30-year-old man who frequently showcased his wealth on social media, posting images of substantial amounts of money and gold, and devised a plan to rob him.

Thang took the initiative to befriend Long, frequently visiting his home and asking to borrow money, but his requests were repeatedly refused.

At noon on Jan. 30 during the Lunar New Year holiday, Thang and Linh went to Long's residence with the intent to rob him. After Long refused to lend money again, Thang strangled him while Linh restrained him.

Following Long's death, they stole valuables including a set of gold jewelry weighing nearly a tael of 18K gold, bracelets of 24K gold, a silver necklace, three mobile phones, and VND31 million (US$1,216) in cash.

Thang gave Linh VND2 million, sold the stolen gold, and used the proceeds to repay debts and cover personal expenses. The pair then fled together.

Three days later, after not hearing from Long, his family visited his home and found his body.

Tien Giang police, in collaboration with Ben Tre authorities, arrested Thang and Linh in Ben Tre Province, approximately 70 kilometers from the crime scene.