Russian man sentenced to 18 years for murdering compatriot in Vietnam

Roman Nikiforov, 41, was convicted on Friday for killing Vasilii Echushin, 45.

The case gained widespread attention in the tourism hotspot of Ham Tien-Mui Ne, Binh Thuan Province, after Echushin's body was discovered in a field in 2024.

According to court documents, the conflict between the two men arose on Jan. 30, 2024, when Echushin asked Nikiforov for help securing a new rental apartment because their current residence in Phan Thiet City was set to be sold. Nikiforov indicated that he intended to rent a new apartment solely for himself, which angered Echushin, who accused him of deception and attempted to assault him.

Believing Echushin was attempting to find a weapon, Nikiforov reacted by repeatedly striking him on the head with a hammer, causing his death. Nikiforov then wrapped the victim's body in a bed sheet and discarded it in a field before cleaning the crime scene and disposing of Echushin's belongings.

Locals discovered the victim's remains two days later, prompting an investigation that swiftly led to Nikiforov's arrest.

During the trial, Nikiforov confessed to the crime and pleaded for leniency from the court.