Thief causes blackouts in Lao Cai by stealing power distribution parts

Nguyen Van Tuyen, 31, was taken in by police in Bao Thang District on Friday for questioning about the thefts.

A preliminary investigation found that Tuyen had stolen components from substations belonging to the Lao Cai power utility and the Vietnam Expressway Corporation last month, which caused repeated blackouts in Lao Cai's capital city and Xuan Giao Commune in Bao Thang District.

Tuyen said he sold the components to get money for drugs and other expenses.

Authorities said his actions have caused significant public losses and severely impeded business and production activities.